Understanding RIRS

RIRS is performed using an endoscopic approach, meaning it does not require cuts or incisions. Instead, a thin, flexible scope is inserted through the urethra, bladder, and ureter into the kidney to target and treat kidney stones. Holmium laser technology is used to fragment stones, making them easier to pass.

Who Needs RIRS?

RIRS is recommended for patients with:

• Kidney stones larger than 1.5 cm that are difficult to pass naturally.
  
  
• Multiple or complex kidney stones that cannot be treated with medications.
  
  
• Failed previous stone treatments like ESWL (shock wave lithotripsy).
  
  
• Urinary tract abnormalities that make traditional treatments ineffective.
  
  
• Bleeding disorders, making open or invasive surgeries risky.
  
  
• Recurrent kidney stones, requiring a minimally invasive solution.
  
  

Advantages of RIRS Over Other Kidney Stone Treatments

• No incisions – Performed entirely through the urinary tract.
  
  
• Minimally invasive – Less pain and quicker recovery than PCNL or open surgery.
  
  
• Safe for high-risk patients – Suitable for those with bleeding disorders or obesity.
  
  
• High success rate – Effectively treats stones in difficult locations.
  
  
• Can be performed as a daycare procedure – Most patients can go home the same day.
  
  

Step-by-Step RIRS Procedure

1. Anesthesia Administration – General or spinal anesthesia is given for a painless procedure.
   
   
2. Insertion of Flexible Ureteroscope – A thin, fiber-optic scope is passed through the urethra, bladder, and ureter into the kidney.
   
   
3. Stone Fragmentation with Laser Lithotripsy – A Holmium laser is used to break stones into tiny pieces.
   
   
4. Stone Removal – Small fragments are extracted, or they pass naturally through urine.
   
   
5. Ureteral Stent Placement (if needed) – A temporary stent may be inserted to help urine drainage.
   
   
6. Completion and Recovery – The procedure typically takes 30 to 90 minutes, and patients can resume normal activities within a few days.
   
   

Recovery After RIRS

• Most patients can go home the same day.
  
  
• Mild burning sensation or blood in urine may occur for a few days.
  
  
• Drink plenty of water to flush out any remaining stone fragments.
  
  
• Avoid strenuous activities for a week.
  
  
• Ureteral stent removal (if placed) is done in 1-2 weeks.
  
  

Potential Risks and Side Effects

RIRS is a safe and effective procedure, but minor side effects may include:

• Mild discomfort or burning sensation while urinating.
  
  
• Temporary blood in urine (resolves within a few days).
  
  
• Urinary tract infection (UTI) (rare, but can be treated with antibiotics).
  
  
• Stone recurrence if proper precautions are not followed.
  
  

Preventing Future Kidney Stones

• Increase water intake (at least 2-3 liters daily).
  
  
• Reduce salt and oxalate-rich foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate).
  
  
• Maintain a balanced diet with controlled protein intake.
  
  
• Regular follow-up check-ups to monitor kidney health.
  
  

Get advanced RIRS kidney stone treatment in Agra with

Dr. Shwetank Prakash, a specialist in laser lithotripsy and minimally invasive kidney stone removal.

Quick recovery and no incisions.

Book your consultation today!