Uretroscopic Removal of Stone (Bladder)

Overview

Ureteroscopic removal of bladder stone is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a telescope through the urethra into the bladder and into the ureter to spot and remove stones. Urologists use forceps for plucking stones from the walls of the ureter and the bladder. A kind of urology basket is also used to grab the stones. Large stones are fragmented with helium laser rays and removed from the bladder.

The procedure of ureteroscopic removal of bladder stone is performed as an outpatient procedure and so in most cases patients are allowed to go home on the same day. With the help of newer technologies introduced to ureteroscopy procedure, it is now possible to remove very small stones in or near the ureter and the bladder.

Ureteroscopy is a common treatment for lower ureteral stones in the ureter, close to the bladder. Shock wave lithotripsy, on the other hand, is the most common treatment for kidney stones. Besides, ureteroscopy is a good choice for pregnant and obese patients with stones in their bladder. Other treatments like open surgery or percutaneous nephrolithotomy is used for oddly shaped and harder stones.

There are minimal risks associated with the treatment of ureteroscopic removal of bladder stone that include bleeding, injury and infection in the ureter. If the ureter is very small, doctors place a stent inside to widen the space. This is done a couple of weeks before the procedure is done.

Before ureteroscopy treatment, you will have to go through check-ups and other obligations as specified by your doctor.

Before the treatment

• Patients scheduled for a ureterescopy procedure should consult with a doctor regarding their health and medical history. Tell your doctor about the medicines you are taking or other natural health products.
• Tell your doctor whether you are taking blood thinners, since it should be stopped before the surgery to prevent heavy blood loss.
• Based upon the information that you give to your doctor, he will tell you which medicines to stop and the new medications that you should start.
• You are required to bring a picture ID on the day of the surgery. You will have to give a urine sample before the procedure to make sure you do not have any infections.
• You are supposed to sign a consent letter before the procedure. Besides, you are not supposed to eat or drink anything before the surgery.

How it is performed

• You are given general anaesthesia to help you feel no pain during the procedure.
• Surgeons insert a ureteroscope gently into the urethra and glides it gently into the bladder.
• The ureteroscope has a small camera fitted to it that allows viewing of the inside of the ureter and the bladder. The scope is pushed through the ureter until it comes close to the stones.
• Laser fibre or urology basket is used to fragment or grasp stones from the bladder walls. Large stones are cut into pieces with laser rays and removed from within the ureter and bladder inner wall.

The operation typically takes an hour to complete. Patients are generally released on the same day or they may have to stay for a night at the hospital.

Recovery

Several hours after the operation, you will feel a burning sensation while urinating. If the problem persists, you may have to stay in the hospital for a couple of days. Drink plenty of water to help get rid of the problem. Taking medicines also help to numb the burning sensation. Besides, it is normal to see blood in urine for 2-3 days. Not to worry, the recovery time of uteroscopic removal of bladder stone is quick and hassle free.