URS (Ureteroscopic removal of stone)
- By Dr Vikas Singh
M.B.B.S., M.S., M.Ch.
Urologist, Genito Uro Oncologist and Kidney Transplant Surgeon
Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Indore.
What is URS ?
URS Ureteroscopic laser stone removal is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove kidney stones. This procedure involves the use of a ureteroscope, which is a flexible instrument with a camera and a laser fiber. The ureteroscope is inserted into the urethra, passed through the bladder, and then advanced into the ureter. The laser fiber is then used to break the stone into small pieces that can be removed from the body through the natural urinary tract
Who is a candidate for URS?
URS may be recommended for individuals with urinary tract stones that are too large to pass on their own or are causing significant discomfort or complications. The procedure may also be recommended if other treatments, such as shock wave lithotripsy, have not been successful in removing the stone.
Is operation available at Kokilaben Hospital Indore ?
Yes. This operation is available at kokilaben dhirubhai Ambani hospital indore. This is one of the most common stone related surgery done at hospital.
What are the benefits of URS?
URS offers several benefits over traditional open surgery for urinary tract stones. These include:
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Minimally invasive: URS is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it involves smaller incisions and less trauma to the body than open surgery. This can lead to faster recovery times and less postoperative pain.
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High success rates: URS has a high success rate in removing urinary tract stones, with most stones being completely removed during the procedure.
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Short hospital stay: URS is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day or the following day after the procedure.
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Reduced risk of complications: URS has a lower risk of complications than open surgery, including a lower risk of infection and bleeding.
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What should I expect before the procedure?
Before the procedure, your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order blood and urine tests to assess your overall health. You may also need to undergo imaging tests, such as a CT scan or ultrasound, to help guide the procedure.
You may be instructed to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, in the days leading up to the procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on what to do before the procedure, including when to stop eating and drinking.
What should I expect during the procedure?
During the procedure, you will be given anesthesia to help you relax and prevent pain. Your surgeon will insert a thin, flexible tube called a ureteroscope through your urethra and into your bladder and ureter. The ureteroscope is equipped with a camera and a laser, allowing your surgeon to visualize the stone and break it into smaller pieces using the laser.
Once the stone has been broken up, your surgeon will use a basket-like device to remove the pieces from your urinary tract. In some cases, a stent may be placed in your ureter to help facilitate healing and reduce the risk of complications.
The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the size and location of the stone.
Is the procedure painful?
Ureteroscopic laser stone removal is performed under general anesthesia, so the patient will not feel any pain during the procedure. After the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort or mild pain, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
What should I expect after the procedure?
After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room to be monitored until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. You may experience some discomfort, such as mild pain or a burning sensation when urinating. Your doctor will provide pain medication as needed to help manage any discomfort.
You will be instructed to drink plenty of fluids to help flush out any remaining stone fragments. Your doctor may also prescribe medications, such as alpha-blockers or potassium citrate, to help prevent the formation of new stones.
You will likely be able to return to your normal activities within a few days after the procedure, but you should avoid strenuous activity for a week or two.
when will I get discharged after this operation question?
you will be discharged from the hospital either on the same day or very next day after this operation.
What are the risks of URS?
Like any surgical procedure, URS carries some risks. These may include:
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Infection: There is a risk of infection anytime the skin is broken, such as during surgery. Your doctor will provide antibiotics to help prevent infection.
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Bleeding: URS may cause bleeding in the urinary tract, which can sometimes require further treatment.
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Injury to the ureter