This is the procedure of breaking or removing whole the stones lodged in the ureter, by entering through the urinary channel with endoscopic devices. It is one of the most frequently used minimally invasive stone treatment methods in modern urology and is often combined with laser technology (Holmium laser).
Main Purpose
- Complete clearance of the stone in the ureter
- Restoration of urine flow
- Reduction of the pressure on the kidney
- Elimination of pain and infection
In Which Situations Is It Applied?
1. Ureteral stones
- Stones lodged in the channel
- Stones that do not pass on their own
2. Obstructing stones
- Stones that cause swelling in the kidney (hydronephrosis)
3. Stones causing pain and infection
- Severe colic pain
- Recurrent urinary tract infection
How Is It Performed?
- Entry is made through the urinary channel with a thin ureteroscope
- The stone is visualized by advancing along the ureter
- Two methods are applied according to the condition of the stone:
1. Breaking with laser
- The stone is fragmented
- The small fragments are removed or allowed to pass on their own
2. Direct removal
- Suitable stones are removed whole with a special basket
Advantages
1. No incision is made
- It is a completely endoscopic procedure
2. High success rate
- It is quite effective especially in middle and lower ureteral stones
3. Fast recovery
- Patients usually return to daily life within a short time
4. Precise treatment with laser
- The stone is fragmented in a controlled manner
Possible Risks
- Burning after the procedure and pain when urinating
- Temporary bleeding
- Edema (swelling) in the ureter
- Rarely, ureteral stricture
- Stone fragments causing temporary obstruction
The Post-Procedure Process
- In some patients a temporary stent (DJ stent) is placed
- Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended
- Small stone fragments are expected to pass
- A return to normal life within a short time is possible
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the stone completely cleared?
In most cases yes, but an additional procedure may be required depending on the size and location of the stone.
Is the procedure painful?
Because it is usually performed under anesthesia, no pain is felt. There may be mild burning afterward.
Is stent placement essential?
Not in every patient, but it is frequently preferred if there is a risk of edema or obstruction in the ureter.
How long does recovery take?
A return to daily life is usually possible within a few days.
Clinical Summary
Ureteroscopic stone treatment is a minimally invasive method with a high success rate, used to break or remove with laser the stones lodged in the ureter. Because it provides fast relief and requires no incision in particular, it is among the standard treatments in modern urology.
