Duplex Kidney in Adults: a Systematic Review of the Literature

Curr Urol Rep. 2023 Dec;24(12):591-600. doi: 10.1007/s11934-023-01190-5. Epub 2023 Nov 9.

Abstract

Purpose of review: In this study, we describe a rare case of a male with a duplex renal collecting system with ectopic ureter insertion into the prostate who presented with sepsis and required urgent laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. This study offers urologists and emergency care practitioners a great overview of the variety of manifestations, anatomic differences, and therapeutic approaches for similar patients.

Recent findings: modified reconstructive strategy could be a method of choice when addressing particular anatomies, such as incomplete duplex kidneys with ureteropelvic junction obstruction in both upper and lower poles when the obstruction is close to the confluence of the two ureters. There is a spectrum of acute presentations and management strategies in adult patients with duplex collecting systems. The majority of patients presenting with obstruction and infection are managed surgically with hemi-nephrectomy; stable patients who present with less extensive anomalies were managed conservatively or with ureteral dilatation or deroofing.

Keywords: Duplex collecting system; Hydronephrosis; Hydroureter; Nephrectomy; Ureterocele.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Kidney / abnormalities
  • Kidney / diagnostic imaging
  • Kidney / surgery
  • Kidney Diseases*
  • Kidney Pelvis / surgery
  • Male
  • Ureter* / surgery
  • Ureteral Obstruction* / surgery