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Endoscopic Ureteral Stone Treatment

Endoscopic Ureteral Stone Treatment
In brief

In ureteroscopy, a stone in the ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder) is reached with a thin camera passed through the urinary tract, then broken up with a laser and removed. No skin incision is made.

A ureteral stone usually causes pain in the side, colicky pain spreading to the groin, blood in the urine, nausea and frequent urination. Small stones may pass on their own. Stones that do not pass, cause infection or make the kidney swell need treatment.

How Is the Procedure Done?

Under general or regional anaesthesia, a thin ureteroscope is passed through the urethra up to the stone. The stone is broken into small pieces with a holmium laser and the fragments are removed with special graspers. If necessary, a temporary tube (DJ stent) is placed in the ureter.

Advantages

  • No incision is made
  • The stone is treated under direct vision
  • The hospital stay is usually short

Afterwards

You will be given advice on fluid intake and diet to reduce the risk of new stones; if needed, stone analysis and a metabolic assessment are carried out. If a DJ stent was placed, it is removed with a simple procedure at the end of the agreed period.

Frequently asked questions

How long does ureteroscopic stone treatment take?
The time depends on the size, position and hardness of the stone. You will be given clearer information once your imaging results have been reviewed.
When can I go back to work after ureteroscopy?
As there is no incision, many patients return to daily life quickly. If a DJ stent has been placed, there may be some mild discomfort for a while, so the return date is set individually.
What should I keep in mind while I have a DJ stent?
While the stent is in place you may need to pass urine often, have pain in your side or notice slightly pink urine; drinking plenty of fluids is recommended. If you develop a fever or severe pain, contact your doctor without delay.
How long does it take for a ureteral stone to pass?
This depends on the size and position of the stone. If the pain cannot be controlled with medication, if there is a fever or if the kidney becomes swollen, treatment is planned without waiting.
When is the DJ stent removed?
How long it stays in is decided according to the stone and the findings during the procedure. It is important not to miss the removal appointment, as a stent left in the body for a long time can cause problems.
Can ureteral stones come back?
People who have passed a stone once can form stones again. Drinking enough fluids, adjusting your diet and having the stone analysed where needed all help to reduce this risk.

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