When is a ureterorenoscopy performed?

Ureterorenoscopy is performed to diagnose and treat urological diseases affecting the ureter, including kidney stones. The ureter carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Kidney stones form in the kidneys, but they can travel further into the ureter and cause unpleasant symptoms such as difficulty passing urine and pain when passing urine. It is important to know that ureterorenoscopy is not performed for acute urinary tract infections.

How is ureterorenoscopy performed?

If the ureterorenoscopy is only to examine the ureter, it usually takes 30 minutes. If the procedure is performed to, for example, dissect or remove a kidney stone from the ureter, it may also take longer. Ureterorenoscopy is performed under full anaesthesia. During the procedure, the doctor gently inserts a ureterorenoscope into the urethra. At the end of the tube is a lens that allows the doctor to visually assess the inner surface of the ureter. Once the ureterorenoscope reaches the bladder, the bladder is filled with a sterile solution so that the doctor can see it better. The doctor then gently inserts the ureterorenoscope into the ureter. If necessary, during the ureterorenoscopy, the doctor takes tissue samples for further laboratory tests.

Flexible ureterorenoscopy

Flexible ureterorenoscopy is more commonly performed when the upper ureter and kidneys need to be examined. During the procedure, the doctor uses a special ureterorenoscope, which is more flexible and allows the doctor to reach and see the kidney structures. The urologist will determine which type of ureterorenoscopy is necessary in your case at the consultation.

After ureterorenoscopy

After the procedure, there may be discomfort and burning during urination for a few days, and some bleeding from the urethra. After the procedure, it is recommended to increase fluid intake to encourage more frequent urination, which will ease the discomfort. Painkillers available in pharmacies can also be used to relieve it. If you have a temperature rise or symptoms of a urinary tract infection after the test, you should contact your doctor.

How to prepare for a ureterorenoscopy?

When you make an appointment, the doctor will tell you how to prepare for the procedure and answer all your questions. Before and after a ureterorenoscopy, your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to prevent the possible development of a urinary tract infection. It is advisable to wait to empty your bladder before going to the doctor’s office, as the urologist may ask you to prepare a urine sample for examination.