RIRS stands for Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery. It is an advanced minimally invasive procedure used to treat kidney stones without making large cuts on the body.
How is RIRS performed?
A thin flexible scope is passed through:
- the urinary passage,
- bladder,
- ureter, and into the kidney.
A laser is then used to break stones into fine particles.
Advantages of RIRS
No external cuts
The procedure is completely endoscopic.
Faster recovery
Most patients recover quickly.
Less pain
Compared to traditional surgery.
Short hospital stay
Many patients can go home within a short period.
Which stones can be treated with RIRS?
RIRS is useful for:
- Kidney stones
- Recurrent stones
- Stones in difficult kidney anatomy
- Stones in obese patients
Is a stent needed after RIRS?
A temporary DJ stent is often placed to help urine drainage and healing. It is usually removed later.
Are there risks?
Like all surgeries, RIRS has potential risks such as:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Fever
- Temporary discomfort from stent
However, it is generally considered a safe and effective procedure.
Final words
RIRS has revolutionized kidney stone treatment by allowing effective stone removal with minimal pain and faster recovery.
This article is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a urologist for evaluation specific to your case.