In a therapeutic nephrostomy, what condition is addressed by drainage?

• A. Urinary incontinence
• B. Urethral stricture
• C. Ureteral obstruction
• D. Renal stones

Answer: (C)

In a therapeutic nephrostomy, the primary condition that is addressed is ureteral obstruction. This procedure involves the placement of a catheter into the renal pelvis through the skin to allow urine to drain directly from the kidney, bypassing any obstructions in the ureter. Ureteral obstruction can occur due to various factors such as tumors, strictures, or external compression, which can cause significant renal impairment and urinary complications if not treated. By providing an appropriate drainage pathway, a nephrostomy helps to alleviate the pressure build-up in the kidney, thereby reducing the risk of further kidney damage and allowing for better management of the underlying cause of the obstruction.

While conditions like urinary incontinence, urethral stricture, and renal stones may cause urinary issues, they do not specifically require drainage through a nephrostomy aimed at managing renal drainage directly from the kidney. Urinary incontinence pertains to the inability to control urination, not directly relating to the obstruction, and urethral stricture affects the urethra rather than the ureter. Renal stones may be treated using various modalities that do not necessarily include nephrostomy, unless they are causing an obstruction that cannot be resolved by other means.