Ureteroscopy Melbourne

A ureteroscope is a very fine telescopic instrument, which is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter and sometimes into the kidney itself. Ureteroscopy allows more than one stone to be treated at one sitting.

Rigid ureteroscopy

Have been used for several years. These allow your doctor to reach into the lower ureter to grasp or disintegrate stones. We may use an instrument called a basket to grasp the stone.

Flexible ureteroscopy

More recently, doctors have begun using very fine flexible instruments which reach all the way to the kidney. These instruments are so fine and fragile that the biggest tool that can be passed up them measures 1.2mm across. For practical purposes, this means doctors have to use a laser fibre (little thicker than a human hair) to deliver the energy to disintegrate stones. This is quite slow and delicate surgery but carries very few risk for the patients.

Ureteroscopy usually requires a general anaesthetic, but it tends to be quite an easy procedure for the patient. This procedure is performed as day surgery. In some cases, you may require an overnight admission. The biggest problem for the patient is usually the stent, if required (refer to stent information).

Following discharge

It is important you drink adequate fluids to help pass any stone fragments

You may notice some blood in your urine. This is normal but you should contact the rooms if the bleeding worsens.

If a stent is left in for a few days, you may experience some discomfort when passing urine, more frequent urination, some urgency and sensation of incomplete emptying (refer to stent information).

You are advised to take regular pain relief if needed. You doctor will advise you.

You may require a few days off work. Generally, 2-3 days at home is adequate

If a stent is left in place, your surgeon will advise you when and how it should be removed.

You are advised to call the rooms on 03 9457 4445 and speak to the Practice Nurse if you experience any of the following after discharge:

• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blood in the urine worsening and/or the passing of clots
• Severe pain not relieved by pain medication
• Inability to pass urine
• Feeling unwell