Ureteroscopy

 

Ureteroscope– is an instrument to examine the urinary tract. Through this device, the surgeon can see a stone or other kind of obstacle in the ureters or kidney and sometimes remove it. Nowadays, the flexible ureterorenoscopes (FURS) are available, which enable reach up to the upper ureter and kidney

 

This procedure is performed to diagnose and sometimes threat obstacles in the ureters (tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder) or kidneys. The ureteroscope is introduced through urethra (the tube, that carries the liquid from the bladder outside of the body), through the bladder and further to the ureters and kidney

 

One of the most common obstacles in the urinary tract are kidney stones. Stones can be located in the bladder, kidneys, ureters or even in urethra. The possibility to remove them with the uretroscope depends of the size, hardness and position of the stone. Usually urological surgeon will be able to inform you on the exact action plan and the possible solutions before the procedure

 

 

Laser treatment for kidney stones

 

When the stone location doesn’t allow to use of uretroscope, the Holmium Laser Lithotripsy can be the solution. The flexible optical fiber of the laser is introduced through working channel of the scope (device used to see like uretroscope or cystoscope) and laser light is directly emitted to the stone. Laser fragments the stone, generating minimum damage to the adjacent tissue, doesn’t involve radiation and reaches into the arias unavailable with other types of instruments. It is the minimally invasive procedure. Procedure is performed without any incisions

 

What kind of anesthesia is applied for Holmium Laser Lithotripsy?

For Holmium Laser Lithotripsy general anesthesia is applied. That means that patient will be put asleep during it

 

Is the procedure of the Holmium Laser Lithotripsy or postoperative time painful?

Usually procedure is performed under general anesthesia, which means that patient is sleeping and doesn’t feel any pain. After the procedure, during the urination a burning feeling can appear. It usually diminishes during one day. Postoperatively, while the irritated tissue is healing or rest of the fragmented stones leaving the body, patient will receive the pain-relieving medication, to shield the process

 

How long is post-operative return to normal functioning?

Normal functioning is possible almost immediately after return from the hospital. Dr Corona advises to avoid hard work or exercise for about a week

 

Does stone removal cause blood in the urine?

The slight amount of blood in the urine after the procedure of Lithotripsy is common, due to urothelium (lining, soft tissue of the kidney and ureter) irritation and previous irritation caused by stones. It will stop as soon as irritations heals – usually 2-3 days after the treatment

 

 

What causes kidney stones and how to prevent them?

 

most common cause of the kidney stones is dehydration of the body. That is why its advised to 

 

• ​take in at least 2 liters of fluids daily to help the system to remove the minerals out of the body naturally

• observe your urine – most of the day it has to be clear and not too concentrated, if its yellowish and smells intense of concentration – might be a sign of dehydration

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