Experience With Surgical Correction of Retrocaval Ureter: A Report of Two Cases From Northern Tanzania

Abstract

A retrocaval ureter is a rare congenital anomaly caused by abnormal development of the inferior vena cava. It usually remains asymptomatic until middle age. A man and a woman aged 35 and 45 years, respectively, presented with right flank pain and hydroureteronephrosis. Computed tomography scans confirmed extrinsic compression by the vena cava. Both patients underwent successful surgical correction, and their postoperative recoveries were smooth. These cases emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term kidney damage. A retrocaval ureter can mimic obstructive uropathy or coexist with ureteral stones. Symptoms may be sudden or persistent, and delayed diagnosis increases the risk of renal harm. Computed tomography reveals the typical "S-shaped" loop of the proximal ureter behind the inferior vena cava. Surgery remains the definitive treatment. In areas with limited resources, open surgery is often preferred, although modern minimally invasive techniques are equally effective and less intrusive but less widely available.