If you have been advised to undergo a rigid ureteroscopy procedure, you will have given you a clear understanding of why this is recommended and what it involves. As an experienced urologist, Professor Francis Chinegwundoh MBE carefully assesses the ureter and kidneys, as well as the urethra and bladder, to ensure the most appropriate approach is taken.
Where Are the Kidneys and What Do They Do?
Humans usually have two kidneys at the back of the abdomen at the lower part of the ribs, one on each side of the body. The kidneys filter the blood and make urine. Each kidney is connected to the bladder by a tube called the ureter, through which urine drains.
What Is a Ureteroscopy
A rigid ureteroscopy procedure is an examination of the ureter using a fine thin telescope called a ureteroscope. A ‘right’ or ‘left’ ureteroscopy indicates which ureter requires examination. A rigid ureteroscopy is usually performed under a general anaesthetic (when you are asleep) so that one of a number of possible procedures may be carried out in one of your ureters depending on your urological condition.
For example, to remove kidney stones with a ‘basket’ or by ‘crushing’, take a tissue sample (biopsy), or to dilate a narrowing (stricture) in the ureter. Where necessary, techniques such as laser treatment or lithotripsy may be used during the procedure to treat underlying conditions effectively, always with your safety and comfort in mind.
Any planned treatment will have been discussed with you before your operation by your medical team and your written consent obtained.
Recovery and Discharge
After a ureteroscopy most patients have an uneventful recovery and are discharged home the same day. When you have had a general anaesthetic or sedation it is important that you do not drive a car, drink alcohol or handle machinery for 24 hours post-op. You should therefore arrange for someone to collect you from the hospital.
However, it may be necessary to insert an internal stent (thin small tube) into the ureter at the time of the operation which means you may stay in hospital a little longer.
This ureteric stent usually remains in place for a few days to a few weeks to aid the healing process, and you will be discharged with this stent. Arrangements will be made for its removal under a local (you are awake) anaesthetic.
This removal is very important and you must ensure you have a date to attend hospital in the near future before you are discharged.
Common Symptoms After the Procedure
Following the rigid ureteroscopy procedure, for about 72 hours after your surgery, especially if you have a stent, you may pass urine frequently, experience a mild burning sensation on passing urine, and/or see a little blood in the urine.
Drinking plenty of fluids (approximately 2 litres/4 pints per 24 hours) and resting as much as possible may help to reduce these symptoms. It is particularly important to drink this amount if you have had stone fragments removed during the rigid ureteroscopy procedure.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If symptoms or discomfort persists following your surgical procedure and you notice that your urine is cloudy and/or has an offensive smell, please contact your GP so that a urinary tract infection may be ruled out. If you were discharged from hospital with antibiotics, it is important that you complete the course as instructed.
Most patients recover quickly following a rigid ureteroscopy procedure, but it is important to be aware of possible complications, however uncommon. If you have any concerns during your recovery, or experience symptoms such as persistent pain or urinary retention, seeking timely advice is essential. Professor Francis Chinegwundoh MBE and his team are here to support you at every stage, providing expert guidance and reassurance whenever you need it.
Ready to Book or Talk Things Through?
Whether you’re ready to make an appointment or simply have questions, we’re here to help. Call +44 (0) 7746 299 121, email mail@urologyconsultant.co.uk or use the contact form.