Ureteroscopy involves treating stones in the ureter and kidney with a small fiberoptic telescope (ureteroscope) inserted through the opening in the urethra (NO incision). Stones are either grasped and removed or broken into tiny pieces with a laser.
After the procedure a small tube (stent) may be placed in the ureter for a few days to allow the lining of the ureter to heal. The doctor will remove the stent at a follow up appointment.
- Success rates: 75-100% depending on stone size and location
- Possible complications: Damage to the ureter, infection, bleeding, ureteral stricture (narrowing).
- Hospital stay and recovery: Most cases performed as an outpatient procedure. Recovery time is short and most people are back to normal activity in 1-2 weeks.