Ureteroscopy & Laser Lithotripsy
Incision-free stone removal: a thin scope reaches the stone through the natural urinary tract and a laser fragments it — usually as an outpatient.
Ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy
Ureteroscopy is the most common surgical treatment for kidney and ureteral stones. A very thin scope is passed through the urethra and bladder up into the ureter and kidney — there are no incisions. Once the stone is seen, a holmium laser breaks it into fragments that are removed with a basket or left as dust to pass.
The procedure
- Performed under anesthesia as an outpatient, typically 30–90 minutes depending on stone size
- A temporary ureteral stent is often left for a few days to a week to allow swelling to settle; stent placement and removal are routine parts of stone care and removal is usually a quick office visit
- Most patients return to normal activity within a few days
Advantages
High stone-free rates in a single procedure, the ability to treat stones anywhere in the urinary tract, and suitability for patients on blood thinners or for stones that are resistant to shock-wave therapy.
This page is general patient education and is not a substitute for a visit. Every patient is different — Dr. Sosenko will review your history, examination, and test results before recommending treatment.