Ureteral injuries in gynecologic surgery.

Ureteral injuries are rare but potentially devastating complications of all major gynecologic operations. They occur in straightforward as well as complicated cases, to both experienced and neophyte surgeons. Preoperative IVP or placement of ureteral stents does not prevent ureteral injury, but identification and visualization of the ureters will minimize their incidence. Failure to recognize injuries intraoperatively converts a correctable 'venial sin' into a catastrophic 'mortal sin', which can lead to serious morbidity, including loss of kidney and even patient death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]