Ureteroscopy is driving a small camera, called a ureteroscope, into the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney and the bladder). By navigating the ureteroscope into the ureter, your Urologist is able to treat kidney stones in the kidney or stones that are stuck in the ureter. This is done using a small laser to break the stones into pieces and/or a small basket to remove stones for the urinary tract completely.
Ureteroscopy for treating kidney stones is done with general anesthesia. There are no incisions. You can go home the same day after a short stay in the recovery room. The procedure is typically short, lasting anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the volume of stones being treated, among other things. The procedure is very safe, with a small risk of infection and damage to the ureter tube.
Most patients require a ureteral stent after ureteroscopy. This is a small flexible tube that spans the length of the ureter. It is used to help the ureter inflammation heal after having stones stuck and to allow for any small stone fragments to pass. The stent is not permanent and is removed about a week later. This is done in clinic or at home by the patient, depending on the circumstances.
Ureteroscopy is one option for treating kidney stones at Magic Valley Urology in Twin Falls, Idaho.