Semi-Rigid Ureteroscope

Kidney stone pain can be a health problem that disrupts your daily life and causes unbearable discomfort. Fortunately, advances in medical technology offer patients more comfortable and effective solutions. At this point, semi-rigid ureteroscopy stands out with its minimally invasive structure and high success rate.

At A Life Health Group, we are committed to providing the highest quality healthcare with the latest technology devices and our experienced expert team. On this page, you can find everything you want to know about semi-rigid ureteroscopy. We aim to address all your questions by explaining the entire process in detail, from preoperative to postoperative care.

Semi-rigid ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove stones or diagnose and treat other problems in the urinary tract. It is performed by advancing a thin, telescope-like device called a ureteroscope through the urethra into the bladder and then into the ureter.

As the name suggests, the semi-rigid ureteroscope has a partially flexible structure. This feature allows the doctor to move more easily within the urinary tract and reach the stone more efficiently. A camera and light source located at the tip of the ureteroscope allow the procedure to be monitored in real time on a screen.

Semi-rigid ureteroscopy can be used as an effective method for the diagnosis and treatment of the following conditions:

• Kidney Stones: Semi-rigid ureteroscopy is particularly effective for removing stones smaller than 5 mm located in the lower part of the urinary tract.
• Ureter Stones: It also provides successful results in the treatment of stones stuck in the ureter.
• Urinary Tract Strictures: Narrowing in the urinary tract can be widened, and urine flow can be restored with semi-
• rigid ureteroscopy.
• Urinary Tract Tumors: It can be used for the diagnosis and treatment of some benign or early-stage malignant urinary tract tumors.
• Urinary Tract Anomalies: Semi-rigid ureteroscopy can be preferred to correct congenital or acquired urinary tract anomalies.

Semi-rigid ureteroscopy offers many advantages compared to traditional open surgery:

• Minimal Invasive: As a procedure that does not require an incision, recovery time is much shorter, allowing patients to return to daily life faster.
• Non-Surgical: Usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, enabling patients to go home the same day.
• Less Pain: Patients experience significantly less pain compared to open surgery.
• Rapid Recovery: Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after the procedure.
• High Success Rate: Semi-rigid ureteroscopy has a high success rate in the treatment of kidney and ureter stones.
• Cosmetic Advantage: Since there is no incision, no scars remain after the procedure.

Semi-rigid ureteroscopy generally involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the operation.
2. Placement of the Ureteroscope: Your doctor advances the ureteroscope through the urethra into the bladder and then into the ureter.
3. Visualization of the Stone: The camera at the tip of the ureteroscope allows your doctor to clearly see the stone.
4. Stone Fragmentation: Depending on the size and location of the stone, your doctor may use laser, ultrasonic energy, or a mechanical device to break the stone.
5. Removal of Stone Fragments: The broken stone fragments are removed using the ureteroscope or naturally expelled from the body.
6. Stent Placement (If Needed): In some cases, a stent may be placed to keep the urinary tract open during recovery. The stent is removed at a later date.

Recovery after semi-rigid ureteroscopy is generally quite comfortable. Most patients can go home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days.

Here are important points to consider after semi-rigid ureteroscopy:

• Pain and Discomfort: You may experience mild pain and discomfort after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe painkillers as needed.
• Urination: Burning during urination, frequent urination, and mild blood in the urine may occur. Drinking plenty of fluids helps reduce these effects.
• Activity: You may need to rest for a few days after the procedure. Avoid heavy exercise. Your doctor will inform you when you can resume normal activities.
• Follow-Up: Your doctor will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. During these visits, any stent, if placed, will be removed, and your overall health will be assessed.

Semi-rigid ureteroscopy is generally a safe procedure, but, as with any surgical operation, some risks exist. These include:

• Bleeding: Mild bleeding may occur during or after the procedure. Rarely, more severe bleeding may occur that could require a blood transfusion.
• Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. This risk is minimized with the use of antibiotics.
• Urinary Tract Injury: Rarely, the ureteroscope may damage the urinary tract. This may require additional surgical intervention.
• Stent-Related Issues: If a stent is placed, complications such as stent displacement, obstruction, or infection may occur.
• Anesthesia-Related Risks: As with any surgery, rare risks associated with general anesthesia exist.

Semi-rigid ureteroscopy is a safe and effective treatment option for most patients. However, certain medical conditions or anatomical features may make the procedure more risky.

Your doctor will evaluate your medical history, overall health, and the size and location of the stone to determine whether semi-rigid ureteroscopy is appropriate for you.

How long does semi-rigid ureteroscopy take?
The duration of the procedure can vary between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the size, location, and complexity of the stone.

Is semi-rigid ureteroscopy painful?
Semi-rigid ureteroscopy is usually performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Mild pain and discomfort may be experienced after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe painkillers as needed.

When can I return to work after semi-rigid ureteroscopy?
Recovery time depends on the type of work you do and your overall health. However, most people can return to work within a few days.

What should I pay attention to after semi-rigid ureteroscopy?
Drink plenty of fluids, avoid heavy lifting, rest as recommended by your doctor, and follow all medical instructions.

Will semi-rigid ureteroscopy need to be repeated?
There is a risk of stones recurring. Therefore, it is important to attend regular check-ups as advised by your doctor and make necessary lifestyle changes to prevent stone formation.

Remember, this information is for general purposes only. If you have any questions about your health, please consult your doctor.

At A Life Health Group, we are committed to providing the highest quality healthcare with the latest technological devices and our experienced expert team. For more information about semi-rigid ureteroscopy or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.