What Is
Ureteroscopy (URS)?
Ureteroscopy (URS) is an endoscopic procedure performed without external
incisions.
A small camera attached to a thin ureteroscope is
inserted through the natural urinary passage to examine the urethra, bladder,
ureter, and, when needed, the kidney.
Specialized instruments can then be passed through the
ureteroscope to diagnose or treat urinary tract disorders.
When Is URS
Recommended?
Your urologist may recommend Ureteroscopy (URS)
for:
- Ureteral
stones.
- Kidney
stones.
- Persistent
urinary obstruction.
- Blood
in the urine with suspected upper urinary tract pathology.
- Narrowing
(stricture) of the ureter.
- Selected
tumors of the upper urinary tract.
- Diagnostic
evaluation when imaging is inconclusive.
Conditions
Treated with URS
URS is most commonly used to manage:
- Ureteral
stones.
- Kidney
stones.
- Ureteral
strictures.
- Upper
urinary tract tumors in selected patients.
- Retained
stone fragments after previous treatment.
- Certain
urinary tract abnormalities.
Types of
Ureteroscopy
Rigid Ureteroscopy
Rigid ureteroscopes are commonly used for stones
located in the lower and middle ureter.
Flexible Ureteroscopy
Flexible ureteroscopes can reach the kidney and upper
ureter, allowing treatment of kidney stones and complex urinary tract
conditions.
The choice depends on stone location and the clinical
situation.
Laser
Lithotripsy
Many patients undergoing Ureteroscopy (URS)
also receive holmium laser lithotripsy.
The laser breaks stones into very small fragments that
are:
- Removed
with specialized baskets, or
- Passed
naturally in the urine.
Laser lithotripsy is highly effective for stones of
various sizes and compositions.
Preparation
Before URS
Before Ureteroscopy (URS), patients undergo a
comprehensive preoperative evaluation, which may include:
- Internal
medicine assessment.
- Cardiology
evaluation when indicated.
- Psychological
assessment when necessary.
- Anesthesia
consultation.
- Urological
examination.
- Blood
tests.
- Urinalysis
and urine culture.
- CT scan
or ultrasound.
The surgeon explains the procedure, expected outcomes,
possible complications, and postoperative instructions.
How Is
Ureteroscopy Performed?
The procedure is usually performed under general
anesthesia.
During URS:
- The
ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra.
- The
bladder is examined.
- The
ureteroscope advances into the ureter.
- The
stone or abnormality is identified.
- Laser
lithotripsy or other treatment is performed if necessary.
- Stone
fragments may be removed.
- A
ureteral stent may be placed if indicated.
No skin incision is required.
Recovery
After URS
Recovery is generally rapid.
Patients may experience temporary:
- Mild
burning during urination.
- Blood
in the urine.
- Increased
urinary frequency.
- Mild
flank discomfort.
Most patients return home on the same day and resume
normal activities within several days.
Ureteral
Stent
A temporary ureteral stent is commonly inserted after
URS to maintain urine drainage and reduce swelling.
The stent is usually removed after several days or
weeks during a simple outpatient visit.
Possible
Risks and Complications
Although URS is considered very safe, possible
complications include:
- Urinary
tract infection.
- Bleeding.
- Temporary
urinary discomfort.
- Ureteral
injury.
- Residual
stone fragments.
- Stent-related
symptoms.
- Rare
need for additional procedures.
Follow-Up
Follow-up may include:
- Clinical
assessment.
- Urine
testing.
- Imaging
studies.
- Stent
removal when applicable.
- Stone
analysis.
- Metabolic
evaluation for recurrent stone disease.
A Message to
Our Patients
Modern Ureteroscopy (URS) has transformed the
treatment of urinary stones by allowing highly effective, minimally invasive
management without surgical incisions. Most patients experience rapid recovery
and excellent outcomes while preserving normal urinary tract function.
Our experienced urology team offers advanced
endoscopic procedures using state-of-the-art ureteroscopes and laser
technology, ensuring individualized treatment plans and comprehensive follow-up
care.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Is Ureteroscopy painful?
No. URS is performed under anesthesia, so patients do
not feel pain during the procedure.
Will I have a surgical incision?
No. The ureteroscope passes through the natural
urinary tract without external incisions.
How successful is URS?
URS has very high success rates for treating ureteral
stones and many kidney stones, particularly when combined with laser
lithotripsy.
Will I need a ureteral stent?
Many patients receive a temporary stent after URS,
although it is not necessary in every case.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients return to their normal daily activities
within a few days after the procedure.
Can URS treat kidney stones?
Yes. Flexible ureteroscopy can effectively treat many
kidney stones in addition to ureteral stones.
Can stones return after treatment?
Yes. Patients who have developed urinary stones remain
at risk of recurrence, making preventive measures and regular follow-up
important.