Interureteric ridge edema: incidence and etiology

Abstract

Background

Interureteric ridge edema may be seen at intravenous urography (IVU) and is related to acute lower ureteral obstruction, trauma, or calculi. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between interureteric ridge edema and acute distal ureteral obstruction caused by ureteral calculi.

Methods

A total of 338 patients who had IVU for various indications during a 6-month period were reviewed for the presence of interureteric ridge edema.

Results

Interureteric ridge edema was seen in 12 (4%) of 338 patients, all with acute lower ureteral obstruction from stones. Interureteric ridge edema was best demonstrated with the partially filled bladder film or postvoid bladder film in all cases.

Conclusion

Interureteric ridge edema is most commonly caused by stone-induced distal ureteral obstruction and is less commonly seen with recent passage of a stone or other etiologies. Interureteric ridge edema was present in 26% of patients with acute lower ureteral obstruction.