Objective To study the diagnosis and therapy of retrocaval ureter.Methods The clinical data and image data of 11 cases of retrocaval ureter in our hospital from January 1997 to June 2005 were analyzed.All the 11 cases were taken by 11th intercostal incision,we sufficiently dismembered the upper part of ureter and related vena cava,and performed retrocaval ureter orthopedics and reduction in all cases,and then rehabilitated the ureter in front of the inferior vena cava.Results All of 11 cases of retrocaval ureter were correctly diagnosed preoperatively and performed retrocaval ureter orthopedics and reduction.The follow-up of 8 cases showed improvement of hydronephrosis,ureter unconstriction and improvement of renal function to some degree.Other 3 cases were lost in follow-up.Conclusion The diagnosis of retrocaval ureter is easy.Usually an IVU or RU(retrograde ureterography) can make a correct diagnosis.Retrocaval ureter orthopedics and reduction are usually the ideal procedures for the treatment of this disease.