Women’s Health  |  Reconstructive Urology

Women’s Reconstructive Urology

Reconstructive urology is a specialized branch of urologic surgery focused on repairing, rerouting or recreating parts of the female urinary tract and select reproductive organs. Whether the underlying cause is a birth defect, an injury, scar tissue or a complication from prior pelvic surgery or childbirth, our team combines advanced surgical techniques with careful planning to restore normal function and quality of life for women.

If you are living with a chronic urinary issue or have been told your case is complex, request an appointment with our reconstructive team.

Conditions We Treat

Our reconstructive program addresses the conditions that most often affect how the female urinary system functions. Common reasons patients are referred include:

Vesicovaginal and Urinary Fistulas

Abnormal connections between the bladder and the vagina, rectum or other pelvic organs. Fistulas can develop after hysterectomy, pelvic surgery, radiation therapy, obstetric injury or advanced pelvic disease. Surgical repair closes the abnormal opening and stops the chronic leakage of urine that fistulas cause.

Urethral Stricture and Urethral Diverticulum

Scar tissue that narrows the urethra can cause weak stream, incomplete emptying and recurrent urinary tract infections. A urethral diverticulum is a pouch that forms off the urethra and can trap urine, causing pain, dribbling and infection. Both can be corrected with reconstructive surgery.

Traumatic Injuries

Reconstruction after motor vehicle accidents, falls, pelvic fractures, surgical injury or obstetric trauma affecting the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra.

Congenital and Birth Defects

Adult repair of anomalies of the female urinary tract, including revisions of prior childhood surgeries.

Neurologic Conditions Affecting the Bladder

Bladder dysfunction from spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida or stroke may benefit from reconstruction such as bladder augmentation or urinary diversion to protect the kidneys and improve continence.

Ureteral Injury or Obstruction

Reconstruction of the ureter after surgical injury, radiation damage, endometriosis or stricture, including ureteroneocystostomy and other advanced repairs to preserve kidney function.

Complex Urinary Incontinence

When standard treatments for urinary incontinence have not resolved leakage, reconstructive options such as sling revision, urethral bulking revisions or bladder neck reconstruction may be considered. Learn more about our urogynecology services for a coordinated approach.

Gender Affirming Procedures

Consultation and coordination for select gender affirming urologic procedures as part of a multidisciplinary care plan.

Our Approach

Reconstructive urology cases are rarely one size fits all. Every plan begins with a detailed history, targeted imaging and often cystoscopy so we understand your anatomy before we recommend a procedure. Whenever possible we choose the least invasive option that will produce a durable result. When open reconstruction is the better path, our fellowship trained specialists have the experience to deliver it.

You will meet the surgeon who will perform your procedure, review realistic outcomes together and receive a clear recovery plan with a direct line to our team for questions.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery varies with the procedure. Simple endoscopic treatments often mean same day discharge and a return to routine activity within a week. Open repairs such as fistula closure or ureteral reimplantation typically involve a short hospital stay, a urinary catheter for one to two weeks and a gradual return to activity over four to six weeks. Pelvic rest is usually recommended for six weeks after vaginal reconstruction. Your written aftercare instructions will cover wound care, activity restrictions, catheter care when applicable and warning signs that need prompt attention.

Why Choose Great Lakes Urology for Reconstructive Care

Our team brings fellowship level training and years of complex case experience to every consultation. Because we offer the full spectrum of women’s urology and urogynecology under one practice, your reconstruction is coordinated with any related care you need for urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, recurrent UTIs or kidney stones, without the delays of outside referrals. Our patients report a 94.4% satisfaction rate on national surveys.

Schedule a Consultation

Complex urologic problems deserve a specialist. Our reconstructive urology team accepts new and referred patients from across the region. Request an appointment online or call the Great Lakes Urology office most convenient to you.