What does the term ureterostomy refer to?

The term ureterostomy specifically refers to the surgical procedure that creates an opening, known as a stoma, on the abdominal wall to allow urine to drain directly from the ureters. This procedure is typically performed when the bladder is dysfunctional or needs to be bypassed due to various medical conditions, such as cancer or severe injury. By establishing this direct connection from the ureters to the outside of the body, patients can manage urine elimination without it passing through the bladder.

This is distinct from other terms related to the urinogenital system. For instance, the removal of the kidney pertains to nephrectomy, while an infection of the urinary tract is referred to as a urinary tract infection (UTI), and inflammation of the bladder is known as cystitis. Each of these terms describes different conditions or procedures not related to the creation of a urinary diversion, making the understanding of ureterostomy as a unique surgical intervention essential.