Uretero Reno Scopy (URS) is a procedure to remove stones from the ureter through the natural urine passage.The procedure is done under spinal or general anaesthesia.

Preoperative Intravenous Urogram(IVU) is done to check the location of the stone and confirm the functioning of the kidney. Other blood tests and work up to assess fitness for operation are done preoperatively.

In this procedure, a fine telescope is passed retrograde through the urine passage and the bladder into the ureter to localize the stone which is broken into small pieces by eithe a pneumatic energy source or laser and the fragments are remove d with the help of graspers/baskets. After the procedure, sometimes a Double J stent is left inside for a few days.

This procedure utilizes the natural urinary passage to access the stone.

Procedure

1. Preparation: The patient is typically given anesthesia, which can be general or spinal, depending on the specifics of the case and patient factors.
2. Insertion: A thin, flexible scope called a ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra, into the bladder, and then into the ureter. The ureteroscope is equipped with a light and camera, allowing the urologist to see inside the urinary tract.
3. Inspection and Treatment: The urologist can inspect the lining of the urinary tract, take biopsies if necessary, and perform treatments. For example, if a kidney stone is found, it can be fragmented with a laser or other instruments and then removed.
4. Post-Procedure: After the procedure, a stent may be placed in the ureter to help with urine flow and healing. This stent is usually temporary and removed after a few days or weeks.

Recovery

• Immediate Recovery: Patients are usually monitored for a few hours post-procedure to ensure there are no immediate complications.
• Short-Term Recovery: It’s common to experience some blood in the urine, mild discomfort, and a frequent urge to urinate for a few days.
• Follow-Up: Patients typically have a follow-up appointment to check the healing process and to remove any stents if placed.

Advantages:

1. Minimally Invasive: Compared to open surgery, URS is less invasive with typically quicker recovery times.
2. High Success Rate: URS is highly effective for diagnosing and treating many conditions of the upper urinary tract.

Complications:

1. Infection: As with any procedure involving insertion of instruments into the body, there is a risk of infection.
2. Bleeding: Minor bleeding is common, but significant bleeding is rare.
3. Injury: There is a risk of injury to the ureter or kidney, which may require additional treatment.
4. Stricture Formation: Scar tissue can sometimes form, leading to a stricture that may need further treatment.