Ureteroscopy

Ureteroscopy is a minimally-invasive procedure in which a small scope is placed through the urethra into the bladder and up the ureter to a kidney stone.

The kidney stone is then fragmented with a laser and/or extracted with a small basket.

At the end of the procedure, a temporary stent is placed in the ureter to prevent blockage of urine flow due to the passage of stone fragments or swelling of the ureter.

The ideal patient for ureteroscopy is someone with a small stone (< 2 cm in diameter) or a small collection of stones in the kidneys or the ureters.

The procedure is an outpatient procedure done under general anesthesia. Patients will usually go home the same day the procedure is done.