RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery)

What is RIRS?

RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) is a minimally invasive, scarless, endoscopic laser procedure used to treat kidney stones by entering the kidney through the natural urinary passage—without any cuts. Using a flexible ureteroscope, the surgeon reaches the kidney and uses a Holmium/Thulium Fiber Laser to dust the stone into fine particles.

This technique is widely preferred for patients seeking pain-free, stitch less, laser kidney stone removal.

Who Needs RIRS?

RIRS is recommended when:

• Kidney stones are >10 mm, difficult or impossible to pass

• ESWL (shockwave therapy) is unlikely to work

• The stone in variable anatomy of the kidney

• Stones recur frequently

• The patient wants a safe, precise, scarless laser option

How RIRS Procedure is Done

RIRS is done under anesthesia and involves no external incision.

Step-by-Step

1. Access the kidney
   A thin flexible ureteroscope is passed through the urethra → bladder → ureter → kidney.

2. Direct stone visualization
   The stone is located using a high-definition camera.

3. Laser fragmentation (Dusting/Basketing)
   Stones are powdered using Holmium or Thulium Fibre Laser, making them pass naturally.

4. Stent placement (if required)
   A temporary DJ stent may be inserted to ensure smooth urine drainage.

Benefits of RIRS

• No cut, no stitches, no visible scars

• Highest precision for all kidney stone locations

• Works for hard stones (calcium oxalate monohydrate)

• Very low complication rate

• Day-care or next-day discharge

• Quick return to routine activities

Recovery After RIRS

• Mild burning or frequency of urination for 2–3 days

• Resume office work in 48-72 hours

• Avoid heavy exercise for 1 week

• Drink plenty of fluids for stone clearance

• DJ stent removal is done after 1–2 weeks