Ureteroscopy
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 3, 2024.
What is 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 do I 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.
What are the 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.
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