Double Ureter: Incidence, Types, and Its Applied Significance—A Cadaveric Study

Introduction Congenital ureter anomalies such as double ureters are uncommon developmental anomalies of the renal system. An abnormal branching pattern of ureteric bud results in the formation of double ureter. This study examined the incidence of double ureter in cadavers of a South Indian population. Methods A total of 50 kidney and ureter specimens were carefully dissected out of the posterior abdominal wall and examined for the presence and subtype of double ureter. Results Of 50 kidneys, three (6%) specimens showed an incomplete double ureter, two on the right kidney and one on the left. In all three specimens, the double ureter fused at different levels to form a single ureter opening into the bladder. Conclusions The prevalence of incomplete double ureter is higher in this study compared with that in previous cadaveric studies. Ureteral injuries are a frequent complication of abdominal and pelvic surgeries. Hence, awareness about the types and varieties of double ureter will aid radiologists and surgeons in interpreting and diagnosing urological images and preventing accidental injury while performing surgery.