Treating Kidney Stones with Ureteroscopic Stone Removal
Ureteroscopic stone removal is performed before, after or instead of other treatments. A ureteroscope allows your doctor see the stone before removing it. If you need this procedure, your doctor will talk to you about its possible complications. You will be advised how to prepare. You will also be told about anesthesia that will keep you pain-free during treatment.
Stone Removal through Your Ureter
Ureteroscopic stone removal extracts a small stone in your ureter with no incision. Your doctor will place a viewing tube (ureteroscope) in your ureter. A wire basket inserted through the tube will remove the stone. Sometimes, a laser or a mechanical device is used to break up the stone. The stone is then withdrawn or passed. A soft tube may be left in your ureter for a short time to drain urine.
Recovery
Ureteroscopic stone removal is an outpatient or overnight procedure. For a few days following surgery, you may feel some pain when you urinate. Or you may have an urge to urinate more often, or observe bloody urine. You may also have a ureteral stent. This soft tube prevents blockage from swelling following the procedure. When the swelling goes down, often within days, the stent is removed. Follow up with your doctor as instructed to check for any new stones.
Call Your Doctor Should You:
- Have sudden pain or flank pain.
- Have a fever over 100.1°F.
- Have nausea that lasts for days.
- Have heavy bleeding when you urinate.
- Have heavy bleeding through your drainage tube.
- Have swelling or redness around your incision.