What defines an intramural ectopic ureter?

An intramural ectopic ureter is characterized by the ureter's abnormal positioning, where it tunnels within the wall of the bladder or urethra. This condition means that instead of terminating properly at the bladder or urethral opening, the ureter enters the bladder wall and continues into the urethra. This intramural course can lead to various complications, such as urinary incontinence or infections, because the urine may not flow correctly to the urinary bladder or may leak from the urethra.

Understanding this definition helps differentiate it from other types of ureteral malformations. For instance, if a ureter were to open directly into the urethra, that would be classified differently than an intramural ectopic ureter. Similarly, if a ureter is positioned above the bladder neck, this describes a different anatomical anomaly, while the absence of the ureter due to congenital defects is another distinct issue. Each of these conditions has specific clinical implications, but the key feature of the intramural ectopic ureter is its tunneling nature within the bladder or urethral wall.