Hydroureter refers to dilation of the ureter(s), the narrow tube urine travels down from the kidneys into the bladder. It is most often caused by obstruction of urine outflow due to blockage of the ureter(s) by calculi (stones), chronic inflammation, neoplasia (cancerous or noncancerous growth), or accidental ligation during surgery.Symptoms are variable, but may include pain, either in the side and/or back (known as flank pain), nausea, and/or vomiting. Treatment is based on the cause.