OBJECTIVE To evaluate the long-term results of laparoscopic pyeloplasty in patients with secondary ureteropelvic junction obstruction after failed primary interventions. METHODS Between August 2000 and October 2012, transperitoneal dismembered laparoscopic pyeloplasty was carried out in 13 patients with a surgical history of failed prior surgical interventions. Perioperative outcomes as well as long-term results were assessed. These outcomes were compared with those of the same procedure carried out for primary ureteropelvic junction obstruction by a single surgeon during the same study period. RESULTS Laparoscopic transperitoneal pyeloplasty was completed successfully in all cases without converting to open surgery or requiring blood transfusion. The preoperative symptoms in 12 of 13 patients all disappeared soon after the operation. Asymptomatic severe hydronephrosis found in a 2-year-old boy reduced in size postoperatively. When comparing the primary with the secondary laparoscopic pyeloplasty carried out by the same surgeon, the mean operative time was longer (183 vs 241 min, P = 0.002), estimated blood loss was larger (33 vs 66 mL, P = 0.03) and the complication rate was higher (8.8% vs 22.2%, P = 0.01) in the secondary group. Success rates were 97.9% and 100% (P = 0.41) at a mean follow up of 25.9 and 40.0 months (P = 0.14) for the primary and secondary groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Laparoscopic pyeloplasty is an excellent option for patients who failed previous surgical management. This approach provides durable long-term outcomes comparable with those of primary treatment for ureteropelvic junction obstruction.