What is UPJ obstruction?

The ureteropelvic junction is the point where the urine-collecting part of the kidney (the renal pelvis) meets the ureter (the tube down to the bladder). When this junction is narrow or kinked, urine drainage slows, the kidney stretches, and over time function can decline. Patients can present with loin pain, recurrent infections or incidental findings on a scan.

Why robotic surgery?

Traditionally corrected through open surgery, UPJ obstruction is now repaired with robot-assisted keyhole techniques. Through several small incisions, the narrowed segment is removed and the ureter reconnected to the renal pelvis - restoring drainage with fine, watertight stitching.

Benefits of the robotic approach

Small incisions with minimal scarring.
Shorter hospital stay and faster return to normal activities.
Precise, watertight reconstruction using 3D vision and articulated instruments.
High long-term success rates for relieving obstruction.

What to expect

Pre-operative imaging (CT and a drainage study) to confirm the diagnosis and plan the repair.
General anaesthetic; typically a short hospital stay.
A temporary internal ureteric stent for four to six weeks to protect the repair, removed in a short day-case procedure.
Follow-up imaging to confirm the kidney is draining well.

Candidates: robotic pyeloplasty is suitable for most patients with symptomatic or functionally significant UPJ obstruction. Dr Kooner will assess fitness for surgery and review imaging at consultation.

Your journey — what to expect

Before
Imaging & confirmation

A CT urogram and a diuretic renogram (MAG3) confirm the obstruction and measure how well the kidney is still functioning.
Operation
Day of surgery

General anaesthetic; procedure typically 2–3 hours. Several small keyhole incisions are used.
1–2 days
Hospital stay

Most patients are discharged within 24–48 hours.
4–6 weeks
Stent removal

The internal ureteric stent is removed in a brief day-case procedure.
3–6 months
Imaging review

A follow-up scan or renogram confirms the kidney is draining well and that the repair has healed.

Risks & considerations

Bleeding, infection, and the usual risks of general anaesthesia.
Urine leak from the reconstructed junction, usually self-limiting while the stent is in place.
Stent symptoms (urgency, frequency, mild flank ache) until the stent is removed.
Rarely, the repair can narrow again over time — picked up on surveillance imaging.
Conversion to open surgery — uncommon but always discussed as a possibility.

Frequently asked questions

Does pyeloplasty save the kidney?

In most patients, yes. Relieving the obstruction allows the kidney to drain normally and prevents progressive decline in function. Patients with kidneys that have already lost most of their function may be counselled about alternative options.

How long does the repair last?

Success rates for robotic pyeloplasty are consistently high, with long-term success in the vast majority of patients. Periodic imaging is arranged for peace of mind.

When can I return to work?

Desk-based work is usually possible within 1–2 weeks; strenuous or physical work usually within 4–6 weeks. Exercise restrictions apply while the stent is in place.

Can my UPJ obstruction be treated without surgery?

Non-surgical options (endopyelotomy) exist for selected patients but have lower long-term success rates. Robotic pyeloplasty is the gold-standard treatment in most cases.

Robotic Pyeloplasty

What is UPJ obstruction?

Why robotic surgery?

Benefits of the robotic approach

What to expect

Your journey — what to expect

Imaging & confirmation

Day of surgery

Hospital stay

Stent removal

Imaging review

Risks & considerations

Frequently asked questions

Related services

Pyeloplasty Patient Information Brochures

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