Ureteroscopy
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
What you need to know about a ureteroscopy:
A ureteroscopy is a procedure to examine in the inside of your urinary tract. The urinary tract your urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. A ureteroscope is a small, thin tube with a light and camera on the end. Ureteroscopy can help identify problems in your urinary tract, such as kidney stones.
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How to prepare for a ureteroscopy:
Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for your procedure. He or she may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your surgery. He or she will tell you what medicines to take or not take on the day of your surgery. Arrange for someone to take you home and stay with you. You may need blood and urine tests before your procedure.
What will happen during a ureteroscopy:
You may be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep and free from pain during surgery. You may instead be given regional anesthesia to numb the area. With regional anesthesia, you may still feel pressure or pushing, but you should not feel any pain. Your healthcare provider will place the ureteroscope into your urethra. He or she will pass it through your bladder and into your ureters and kidneys. Your healthcare provider may place tools through the scope that will help him or her remove tissue or stones. The tools may also help him or her place stents or sheaths to help keep your ureters open.
What will happen after a ureteroscopy:
You will be taken to a room to rest until you are fully awake. Healthcare providers will monitor you closely for any problems. When your healthcare provider sees that you are okay, you will be able to go home.
Risks of a ureteroscopy:
You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. One of your ureters may be injured. You may have a blockage in one of your ureters. You may need another procedure or surgery.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever.
- You cannot urinate.
- You have blood in your urine.
- You are vomiting.
- You have pain in your abdomen or side.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Antibiotics may be given to prevent an infection.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Drink liquids as directed:
Liquids can help prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections. Drink water and limit the amount of caffeine you drink. Caffeine may be found in coffee, tea, soda, sports drinks, and foods. Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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