Ureteroscopy is a medical procedure used in urology to visualize and treat conditions of the upper urinary tract, especially in the ureters and kidneys.
What Is Ureteroscopy?
Ureteroscopy is performed using an instrument called a ureteroscope—a thin, flexible or rigid device equipped with a tiny camera that allows physicians to examine the internal urinary tract in real time.
Beyond its diagnostic function, it is also used to treat issues such as kidney stones, tumors, or ureteral strictures.
The ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra and bladder until it reaches the ureters or kidneys.
This procedure has several indications. The most common reasons to perform a ureteroscopy include:
- Kidney and ureteral stones: Particularly useful for removing stones that cannot pass naturally or that do not respond to other treatments.
- Tumors in the upper urinary tract: Enables direct visualization and biopsy of suspicious masses in the ureters or kidneys.
- Ureteral strictures: Used to diagnose and treat narrowing of the ureter that can obstruct urine flow.
- Diagnosis of hematuria: When there is blood in the urine and the cause cannot be identified with other diagnostic methods, ureteroscopy allows for a detailed examination of the urinary tract.
- Removal of foreign bodies: this procedure can provide a solution when foreign objects are present in the urinary tract.
Due to its versatility, ureteroscopy is a key tool for treating various conditions with a minimally invasive approach.
Flexible Ureteroscopy
Flexible ureteroscopy is an advanced version of the traditional procedure, designed to offer greater maneuverability and access to more complex areas of the upper urinary tract, such as the renal calyces.
One of its main uses is for the treatment of complex kidney stones. It is often combined with holmium laser technology, which fragments the stones into small pieces that can then be removed without the need for open surgery.
Compared to rigid ureteroscopy, the flexible version provides greater comfort for the patient and reduces the risk of tissue damage. However, the choice between the two approaches depends on factors such as the location of the condition, the size of the stones, and the specialist’s preference.
Recovery After Ureteroscopy
Recovery after ureteroscopy is typically fast due to its minimally invasive nature. However, the recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the intervention and the patient’s overall health.
Ureteroscopy is an essential procedure in modern urology, allowing for the effective management of conditions such as kidney stones, hematuria, or urinary tract tumors.
At the Saludora Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Department, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes
MedlinePlus, NIH, Cigna
