Ureteral reimplant surgery changes the way an abnormally positioned ureter connects with the bladder. Ureters are the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Normally, the ureter enters the bladder, which is made out of muscle, in such a way that urine is allowed to enter the bladder but not allowed to back up to the kidney. When the ureter enters the bladder abnormally, the muscle backing of the bladder doesn't completely cover the ureter and urine flows back toward the kidney. This condition is called vesicoureteral reflux.

Are any artificial parts used in ureteral reimplant surgery?

No. The original ureter is surgically re-positioned or reimplanted in the bladder wall. The end of the ureter is surrounded by bladder muscle in this new position, which prevents urine from backing up (refluxing) toward the bladder.

Where is the incision?

A small incision is made in the lower abdomen, below the bikini line. All stitches are dissolvable. Occasionally, there may be one stitch in the skin to secure a catheter that will be removed. A clear plastic dressing that will be removed two days after surgery will cover the incision. Little pieces of tape, called "steri-strips," along the incision eventually will curl up and fall off. You may begin bathing your child after the dressings have been removed and all catheters are no longer in place.