Single-system ectopic ureters: a review of 12 cases.

Eight boys and 4 girls with single-system ectopic ureters were seen during a 15-year period. The abnormality was bilateral in 4 patients and the majority had major associated urological and other abnormalities. Eight ectopic ureters were reimplanted successfully into the bladder and 4 nonfunctioning kidneys were removed, as were 2 "blind" ectopic ureters. One patient died during the neonatal period and the others have been followed from 1 to 15 years. Renal function was noted to be normal in 10 patients and 1 has mild renal failure. Bladder function was normal in 8 patients. Early surgery should be undertaken in patients with single-system ectopic ureters. Stabilization of the upper urinary tract can be anticipated and satisfactory bladder function can also be expected in the majority of cases.