Ureteroscopic Stone Removal (URS)

What is Ureteroscopic Stone Removal?

Ureteroscopic Stone Removal (URS) is a minimally invasive, endoscopic procedure used to treat stones lodged in the ureter or kidney. A thin telescope-like instrument called a ureteroscope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter to directly visualize and remove the stone.
URS is one of the most commonly performed procedures for ureteric stone treatment, especially for stones that cause pain, blockage, or fail to pass naturally.

Why is URS Recommended?

Doctors recommend ureteroscopy when:

The stone is stuck in the ureter.
Pain is severe or recurrent.
Medical therapy fails to pass the stone.
Stone size is >7–8 mm.
There is infection, fever, or obstruction.
Patient prefers quick, definitive treatment over waiting for natural passage.

How is the URS Procedure Done?

This is a no-cut, scarless procedure, performed under spinal or general anesthesia.

Step-by-Step Process

Diagnostic ureteroscopy
A fine ureteroscope is inserted through the urinary passage to locate the stone.
Stone fragmentation using Holmium Laser / Thulium Fibre Laser
The stone is broken into fine dust or small fragments.
Stone removal
Fragments are removed using micro-baskets if required.
DJ stent placement (if needed)
A temporary ureteric stent is placed to prevent blockage and ease urine flow.

Benefits of Ureteroscopic Stone Removal

No incision, no stitches
Same-day or next-day discharge
Effective even for hard stones
Quick recovery
Ideal for patients needing fast relief
Best option for stones resistant to medicines

Recovery After URS

Hospital Stay

Most patients go home next morning

Symptoms You May Experience

Mild burning during urination for 2–3 days
Slight blood in urine
Increased urinary frequency (especially with DJ stent)

Return to Activities

Office work in 24–48 hours
Full activity in 3–5 days

Stent Removal

Usually removed after 7–14 days, depending on stone size and location.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is ureteroscopic stone removal painful?

A: No. URS is performed under anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort may occur for a short time after the surgery, especially if a stent is placed.

Q: What is the success rate of URS laser stone removal?

A: URS has a very high success rate—90–98%, depending on stone size and location.

Q: How long does it take to recover after URS?

A: Most patients resume normal activities in 1–2 days and feel fully comfortable by day 3–5.

Q: Is a stent always required after ureteroscopy?

A: Mostly DJ stents are placed. Stents are used if there is swelling, a large stone was treated, or if laser fragmentation was extensive.

Q: How can I contact you?

You can reach us by phone on +91-7703903478 and by email on ritesh.urology@gmail.com. We are always happy to answer your questions.

Q: How long does the ureteroscopy procedure take?

A: The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on stone size and whether laser fragmentation is needed.

Q: Is URS safe for elderly patients or those on blood thinners?

A: Yes. URS is considered safe even in elderly patients, diabetics, hypertensives, and individuals with heart disease, as it is a minimally invasive, no-incision procedure. Blood thinners like aspirin, clopidogrel, or anticoagulants may need to be stopped 3–5 days prior. Always discuss your medications with your urologist.