Tag: endoscopy

– Ureteroscopy is a procedure used to address kidney stones.
– It involves the use of a small telescope called a ureteroscope.
– The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.
– The duration of the procedure is usually between one to three hours.
– Small stones can be removed whole using a basket device.
– Large stones or narrow ureters may require fragmentation, often done with a laser.
– Once the stone is broken into small pieces, they are removed.
– The use of the ureteroscope may cause swelling in the ureter.
– To ensure proper drainage of urine, a small tube called a ureteral stent may be temporarily left inside the ureter.
– Ureteroscopy is usually an outpatient procedure but may require an overnight hospital stay if it is lengthy or difficult.
– Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive method to treat kidney stones and stones in the ureter.
– It is performed in the operating room with general or spinal anesthesia.
– Pre-op lab tests and X-rays are done to ensure safety.
– An antibiotic is given before the procedure.
– Monitoring devices are attached to the patient.
– The inside of the bladder is examined with an optical cystoscope.
– X-ray images with contrast may be taken to locate the stone.
– The ureteroscope is passed through the natural urinary channel to reach the stone.
– A wire basket can be used to extract the stone, or it can be fragmented with laser or electrohydraulic energy.
– The procedure takes 1-2 hours.
– The patient is monitored in the post-operative recovery area for about 2 hours before being discharged.
– Some patients may have a temporary stent placed in the ureter to prevent blockage.
– The stent is usually removed 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure.
– Urine may be bloody for several days after the procedure.
– Pain relief medication is provided.
– Activity should be limited after the procedure.
– Most people can resume normal activities without pain several days after the procedure or once the stent is removed.
– A follow-up visit with a Urologist will be scheduled within 1-2 weeks to remove the stent if one was placed without a thread.
– If a stent was not required or was already removed at home, the follow-up visit will be scheduled within 4-6 weeks after surgery.
– During the follow-up visit, an X-ray will be performed to determine the success of the procedure and check for any complications.
– Depending on the individual’s risk of stone recurrence, further testing may be offered to prevent future stones.