RIRS involves accessing the kidney via the urinary tract to fragment and remove stones or lesions using a laser. This procedure offers patients a less invasive option with a quicker recovery time and generally lower risk of complications.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is a surgical procedure that uses a flexible ureteroscope to treat kidney stones and other renal pathologies. This method typically employs laser energy to break up stones, facilitating their removal through the urinary tract. Besides kidney stones, RIRS is also effective in treating kidney tumors and strictures.
The primary goal of RIRS is to treat kidney stones or other intrarenal lesions minimally invasively. Compared to more invasive methods such as open surgery or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), RIRS results in less pain, a shorter recovery period, and fewer complications. RIRS enhances patient comfort and reduces hospital stay durations, making it an effective method for kidney stone treatment.
RIRS surgery is applied to individuals with the following conditions:
The RIRS procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia. Initially, a flexible ureteroscope is inserted through the urinary tract to reach the kidney. The ureteroscope contains a camera and laser probe, allowing the surgeon to clearly view the kidney and target the stones. Laser energy is then used to fragment the kidney stones into smaller pieces, which are naturally expelled through urination or extracted with special tools.
The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, and patients are usually discharged the same day or the next day. After RIRS, a temporary stent may be placed in the urinary tract to facilitate urine flow and aid kidney healing. Patients may experience mild pain and blood in their urine post-procedure, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few days. Adhering to post-operative care instructions and attending follow-up appointments is crucial for a smooth recovery.
One of the main advantages of RIRS is that it is minimally invasive, leading to shorter recovery times and reduced hospital stays for patients. Additionally, RIRS is highly effective in treating kidney stones, providing successful outcomes for most patients. The use of laser technology ensures precise and effective stone fragmentation, enhancing the procedure's success rate.
However, RIRS does have some risks and potential complications. Post-procedure, patients may experience infection, bleeding, or urinary tract injuries. There is also a risk that not all stones will be removed, or new stones may form. Patients should be informed about these risks and discuss all details with their surgeon before the procedure.
After RIRS, patients should closely monitor their symptoms and follow their doctor's instructions. Mild pain, blood in the urine, or a burning sensation when urinating is normal, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days. Patients should drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities post-procedure.
The stent placed in the urinary tract is usually removed within a few weeks. During this period, maintaining good hygiene and following prescribed antibiotic regimens is crucial to reduce the risk of infection. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to evaluate the treatment's success and monitor for potential complications. For detailed information and appointments, contact EMPCLINICS.
The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, so no pain is felt during surgery. Post-procedure, mild discomfort and a burning sensation when urinating may occur but are typically short-lived.
Temporary difficulty and a burning sensation when urinating are common post-procedure but usually resolve quickly. Persistent issues are rare.
RIRS is an effective method for treating kidney stones. However, there is a possibility of recurrence, making regular monitoring and follow-up essential.
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