Ureteroscopy

What is ureteroscopy?

Ureteroscopy is the diagnostic procedure which is used for the detection of the kidney stones. It consists of a small scope-like flexible telescope which is inserted into the bladder and ureter and it is used to diagnose and treat a variety of problems in the urinary tract.

What are the functions of the kidney?

The basic functions of the kidney are:

– Maintaining the fluid balance of the body.
– Regulation and filtration of minerals from the blood.
– Filtration of waste materials from food, medications, and toxic substances.
– Producing hormones that help in the production of the red blood cells, promote bone health and regulate blood pressure.

What is a kidney stone?

Kidney stones are small stone-like objects made up of minerals and salts found in urine. They are formed in the kidney but can move down to the ureter.

Why did my doctor recommend me to undergo the Ureteroscopy?

Your doctor might recommend you to undergo the procedure of the Ureteroscopy if you have the following conditions:

– If you have urinary tract problems, such as urine blockage, a ureteroscopy can help in determining the problem.

– When it hurts to pee and you’re not going as often as you should, you may or may not need this procedure. It will depend on your symptoms. In this case, the doctor will recommend to you whether you need the ureteroscopy. 

– Ureteroscopy is sometimes used by doctors as a part of shock wave lithotripsy which is a treatment to break up kidney stones.

This test is most helpful for the following category of people:

– Pregnant women
– Overweight people
– People with blood-clotting problems
– Check for cancer.
– Examine or remove a growth or tumor.
– Examine areas of the ureters that have become narrow.
– Diagnose repeated urinary tract infections and other problems.

When should I undergo the Ureteroscopy procedure?

If you have the following issues, it is highly recommended to undergo the diagnostic procedure Ureteroscopy:
Stones in the kidney or ureter.
Blood in the urine.
Unusual cells in a urine sample.
Scarring of the ureter.
A growth, polyp, tumor, or cancer in the ureter.

What are the preparations needed for the Ureteroscopy test procedure?

– 10hours -12hours of fasting is required prior to your procedure.

– Certain medicines, such as aspirin or other blood thinners has to be temporarily stopped. Do not stop taking any prescription medicines unless your doctor tells you to stop.

– Ask your doctor for the medicines you should still take on the day of your surgery.

How is the Ureteroscopy performed?

The procedure usually takes 1 hour. The procedure is carried out by the following steps:
– You are given general or local anesthesia that allows you to sleep.

– Your groin and urethra are washed. The scope is then inserted through the urethra, into the bladder, and then up into the ureter. Small instruments are sent through the scope.

– These small instruments help to grab and remove kidney stones or break them up using a laser.

– A stent is placed in the ureter to allow urine and small pieces of kidney stone to pass through. The stent is removed in 1 or 2 weeks. This is usually done in the doctor’s office without anesthesia.

How will I feel during the procedure of ureteroscopy?

You will experience no pain at all during the procedure of the ureteroscopy. The anesthetic which is introduced helps in sleeping throughout the time of the procedure of the test. There can be some mild to moderate pain after the test is done. You might experience mild pain in the bladder area after the ureteroscopy test is done. This pain can be easily controlled by the intake of various medications.

What are the risks associated with the ureteroscopy test?

There are a few risks and complications associated with the procedure of the ureteroscopy. Some of the most common risks are as follows:

– Stent pain is one of the most common risks of the ureteroscopy procedure. The stent can rub on the inside of the bladder making you feel like urinate frequently(overactive bladder). The tent can even pass the urine up from the bladder to the kidney which leads to tingling sensation to intense pain.

– There can be stone fragments present even after the surgery is done. In 40% of the cases, the fragments of stones are left in the kidney or the ureter.

– A ureteral avulsion is a condition in which there is complete dissociation of the ureter or the kidney. This is one of the most common risks during the ureteroscopy procedure. Ureteral stricture is the scarring of tissues within the ureter. It is one of the commonest intra-operative risks.

– There are chances of bleeding(Haematuria) and infection following the procedure of ureteroscopy. These problems can be easily resolved by the hydration and intake of various antibiotics.

What is the price range of ureteroscopy in India?

The price of the ureteroscopy in India ranges from Rs 58,000-2,50,000. It varies across the country.