Has anyone heard of a kidney stone moving backward further up the ureter rather than down into bladder?

While it is extremely rare, it is possible for a kidney stone to move backward further up the ureter rather than down into the bladder. This phenomenon is known as "Ureteral stone migration reflux". It occurs when the stone becomes lodged in a narrow section of the ureter and the force of urine flowing behind the stone causes it to move upward. This retrograde movement of the stone is uncommon and usually occurs in individuals with conditions that affect ureteral peristalsis or anatomy, such as a stricture or enlarged prostate.

Typically, kidney stones form in the kidney and travel down the ureter towards the bladder through a process called peristalsis, which involves coordinated muscle contractions. In most cases, if the stone is small enough, it can pass through the ureter and get excreted in the urine. However, if the stone is larger or encounters an obstruction, it can get stuck in the ureter, causing pain and discomfort.

If a kidney stone does move backward up the ureter, it can cause additional symptoms and potentially lead to complications. These may include:

- Increased pain and discomfort in the back or side.

- Difficulty or inability to urinate (anuria).

- Urinary tract infection (UTI) due to the obstruction.

- Kidney damage if the blockage persists for a prolonged period.

If a kidney stone moves backward further up the ureter, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Treatment options may include medical therapy to dissolve the stone, shockwave lithotripsy to break it into smaller fragments, or surgical intervention in severe cases.

Overall, while it is unusual, it is still possible for a kidney stone to move backward up the ureter, and prompt medical care should be sought if this occurs to avoid potential complications.