Ureterostomy: Purpose, Procedure, Care and Recovery
Updated: 2 days ago
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: November 2026 · How we review
Quick Answer
A ureterostomy is surgery that reroutes one or both ureters so urine leaves through a new opening (stoma) on your belly and collects in a pouch worn outside the body. It's usually permanent and is done when the bladder can't drain urine normally, such as after bladder removal for cancer, a bladder injury, spina bifida or a spinal cord injury.
What the research says
Ureterostomy had fewer early infections than an ileal conduit: a review of 11 studies after bladder removal found an ileal conduit gave better physical quality of life, mainly versus a two-stoma ureterostomy, but had higher risks of wound infection and early kidney infection, especially versus a single-stoma ureterostomy (Tjiaman MP et al., Urology, 2026) [2]
Kidney infections were more common with ureterostomy long term: in 87 matched pairs of people with bladder cancer, severe complications were similar, but recurrent kidney infection occurred in 25.3% with ureterostomy versus 11.4% with an ileal conduit (Suzuki K et al., Urologia Internationalis, 2020) [3]
Key takeaways
A ureterostomy sends urine out through a stoma on the belly.
Urine collects in an external pouch.
It's used when the bladder can't drain urine.
It can involve one or both ureters.
Most people return to normal activities after healing.
What is a ureterostomy?
The ureters normally carry urine to the bladder. A ureterostomy connects them directly to the skin. It's similar to a urostomy but doesn't use a piece of intestine. Without urine drainage, infections and kidney failure can happen. Sources: [1]
Why it's done
It's usually permanent.
After bladder removal (cystectomy) for cancer or disease.
Bladder damage or injury.
Birth conditions such as spina bifida.
Spinal cord injury. Sources: [1]
Types of ureterostomy
Your surgeon picks the best stoma site.
Type | What it means |
Unilateral | One ureter is rerouted; the other still drains to the bladder |
Bilateral | Both ureters are rerouted |
Sources: [1, 2]
How to prepare
Kidney function and blood tests.
Imaging such as X-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI.
A retrograde pyelogram.
Your provider picks a stoma site that's easy to see and away from your belt line and skin folds. Sources: [1]
What happens during surgery
The surgeon disconnects one or both ureters from the bladder and connects them to a stoma in your skin. Urine then flows into an external pouch. Sources: [1]
Living with a ureterostomy
The stoma has no muscle to control urine flow.
The pouch has an adhesive barrier and a collecting bag with a valve.
Empty it when it's one-third to one-half full, about as often as you used to urinate.
Connect to a larger pouch at night.
Change the pouch every five to seven days.
Wash the stoma with mild soap and water and dry completely. Sources: [1]
Learn more about ostomy surgery. Sources: [1]
Risks
Infection.
Bleeding.
Hernia.
Skin redness, swelling or irritation.
Urine leaks that break down skin.
Scar tissue or the procedure not working. Sources: [1, 3]
Recovery
No driving or heavy lifting for four to six weeks.
After healing, most people return to normal activities, including swimming.
Full-contact sports may be restricted. Sources: [1]
Outlook
A ureterostomy lets urine drain when the bladder can't, lowering the risk of infections and kidney damage. Many people live full, long lives with one. Sources: [1]
When to call your provider
Rash or redness around the stoma.
Skin that breaks open, crusts or develops sores.
Dark, bloody or strong-smelling urine.
Extra mucus, back pain or fever.
Nausea, vomiting or poor appetite. Sources: [1]
Conclusion
A ureterostomy gives urine a new way out of your body when your bladder can't do the job. With good stoma care, you can return to most of your usual activities.
Keep learning: read about urostomy and ostomy surgery.
Frequently asked questions
What is a ureterostomy?
Surgery that sends urine out through a stoma on the belly.
Why is it done?
When the bladder can't drain urine, such as after bladder removal.
Is it permanent?
Usually, yes.
How is it different from a urostomy?
It connects the ureters directly to the skin, without intestine.
Can I control urine flow?
No. Urine drains continuously into the pouch.
How often do I empty the pouch?
When it's one-third to one-half full.
How often do I change the pouch?
Every five to seven days.
Can I swim?
Yes, once the stoma heals.
When can I drive?
After four to six weeks.
What are the risks?
Infection, skin irritation, hernia and urine leaks.
Related Reading
Urostomy: A Comprehensive Guide to Urinary Diversion Surgery another urinary diversion.
Ostomy Surgery: Types, Procedure, and Recovery ostomy surgery.
Understanding the Ureters the ureters.
Nephrostomy Tube: Purpose, Placement and Care a kidney drainage tube.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Ureterostomy: Purpose, Procedure, Risks & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated August 6, 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17777-ureterostomy
Tjiaman MP, Zaidan MZ, Ausath ZF, et al. Quality of life and postoperative complications of single- or bilateral-stoma cutaneous ureterostomy compared to ileal conduit after radical cystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Urology. 2026;207:287-292. PMID 41015301. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.urology.2025.09.034
Suzuki K, Hinata N, Inoue TA, et al. Comparison of the perioperative and postoperative outcomes of ileal conduit and cutaneous ureterostomy: a propensity score-matched analysis. Urologia Internationalis. 2020;104(1-2):48-54. PMID 31852001. https://doi.org/10.1159/000504681
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general education only and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor about your own diagnosis and treatment, and seek emergency care right away for severe or sudden symptoms.
Comments