R R

What Is Ureteroscopic Stone Removal?

Ureteroscopic stone removal is a procedure that uses a thin viewing instrument to reach a stone through the urinary tract. The instrument passes through the urethra and bladder into the ureter, and it may reach the kidney. The urologist removes the stone or breaks it into smaller pieces.

Link to This Resource Page

Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.

To display this...

What Is Ureteroscopic Stone Removal?

Ureteroscopic stone removal is a procedure that uses a thin viewing instrument to reach a stone through the urinary tract. The instrument passes through the urethra and bladder into the ureter, and it may reach the kidney. The urologist removes the stone or breaks it into smaller pieces.

read more about ureteroscopic stone removal ...

Copy this HTML:

Copy HTML Copied!

When Is Ureteroscopic Stone Removal Used?

A stone may need treatment if it does not pass, blocks urine flow, or causes persistent symptoms. Ureteroscopy can treat stones in the ureter and selected stones in the kidney. The choice of procedure depends on the stone's size, location, and the patient's condition.

How Is the Stone Removed?

The urologist guides a ureteroscope through the urinary tract without making a skin incision. A small basket can retrieve a stone, or a laser can break it into pieces. A temporary ureteral stent may be placed to help urine drain afterward.

What Happens During Recovery?

Mild burning during urination and some blood in the urine can occur for a short time. A stent, if placed, may cause urinary urgency or discomfort until it is removed. Follow-up care checks for remaining stone fragments and addresses stone prevention.

What Are the Risks?

Possible complications include infection, bleeding, and injury to the ureter. Stone fragments may remain or require another procedure. A ureteral stent can also cause pain and urinary symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ureteroscopic Stone Removal

Does ureteroscopy require an incision in the skin?

No. The instrument reaches the stone through the natural urinary passage.

Is a laser always needed?

No. A small stone may be removed with a basket, while a larger stone may need to be broken into pieces.

Will I need a ureteral stent?

Not always. The urologist may place one to support drainage while the ureter heals.

Can the stone return after removal?

Yes. Removing a stone does not prevent new stones from forming, so follow-up may include advice based on the stone type and other risk factors.

References

Cystoscopy & Ureteroscopy. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/cystoscopy-ureteroscopy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Ureteroscopy. Healthdirect Australia. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/surgery/ureteroscopy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Ureteroscopy. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://www.medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007593.htm. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Ureteroscopy. Yale Medicine. https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/ureteroscopy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Ureteroscopy: Purpose, Procedure, Risks & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16213-ureteroscopy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.