The patient was admitted with high fever and pain in the left flank. Clinical examination and diagnostic tests revealed a rare condition known as a duplicated kidney and ureter system on the left side - resulting in a total of three kidneys.

One of the kidneys had lost function, while the ureter was severely dilated and filled with pus, causing a serious infection.

According to medical experts, such congenital anomalies are extremely uncommon, occurring in only about 1% of the population, with a higher prevalence in women. Symptoms may include recurrent urinary tract infections, painful urination, frequent urination and lower back pain, although some cases remain asymptomatic.

After multidisciplinary consultation and infection control, the surgical team from the hospital’s urology department decided to remove the entire non-functioning kidney and ureter system on the left side to eliminate the infection source and prevent further complications.

The operation, which lasted three hours, was particularly challenging due to the enlarged, twisted ureter lying close to major blood vessels. Despite the complexity, the surgery was successfully completed.

Postoperatively, the patient was closely monitored and showed good recovery. By the third day, she was able to eat and move lightly.

Doctors advise the public to undergo regular health check-ups to detect diseases early, especially congenital abnormalities, enabling timely treatment and reducing the risk of serious complications.

Phuong Thuy