Understanding URS

URS is performed using an endoscopic approach, meaning the procedure is done entirely through the natural urinary tract. A tiny camera at the tip of the ureteroscope provides a detailed view of the urinary system, allowing the surgeon to locate, break, or remove stones.

Two Types of Ureteroscopes Used in URS:

• Flexible Ureteroscope – Used for kidney stones located in the upper ureter or kidney.
  
  
• Rigid Ureteroscope – Used for stones in the lower ureter, near the bladder.
  
  

Who Needs URS?

URS is recommended for patients with:

• Ureteral stones larger than 5 mm that cannot pass naturally.
  
  
• Recurrent kidney or ureteral stones requiring intervention.
  
  
• Failed previous treatments, such as ESWL (shock wave lithotripsy).
  
  
• Narrowing of the ureter (stricture) needing dilation.
  
  
• Blood in urine (hematuria) requiring investigation.
  
  

Advantages of URS Over Other Kidney Stone Treatments

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

Step-by-Step URS Procedure

1. Anesthesia Administration – General or spinal anesthesia is given for a painless procedure.
   
   
2. Insertion of Ureteroscope – The scope is passed through the urethra into the bladder and ureter.
   
   
3. Stone Identification – The surgeon locates the kidney or ureteral stone.
   
   
4. Stone Treatment Options:
   
   
   • Laser Lithotripsy – A Holmium laser breaks large stones into smaller fragments.
     
     
   • Stone Extraction – Small stones may be removed with a tiny basket.
     
     
5. Ureteral Stent Placement (if needed) – A temporary stent may be inserted to aid healing.
   
   
6. Completion and Recovery – The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, and patients can resume normal activities within a few days.
   
   

Recovery After URS

• 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 heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a week.
  
  
• Ureteral stent removal (if placed) is done in 1-2 weeks.
  
  

Potential Risks and Side Effects

URS 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).
  
  
• Ureteral swelling or narrowing (may require stent placement).
  
  

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 expert URS kidney stone treatment in Agra with Dr. Shwetank Prakash,

A specialist in laser ureteroscopy and minimally invasive kidney stone removal.

Quick recovery and no incisions. Book your consultation today!