Retrograde Intra Renal Surgery(RIRS) – Kidney Stones Treatment

RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) is a urological procedure used to treat kidney stones. This minimally invasive technique involves passing a flexible endoscope through the urethra, bladder, and ureter into the kidney, allowing the surgeon to visualize and remove stones without the need for open surgery or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).
RIRS is particularly beneficial for high-risk patients, such as those with cardiac conditions, chronic kidney disease, or solitary functioning kidneys, as well as pediatric patients who may be at risk from more invasive procedures. The surgery can be performed under general or spinal anesthesia and typically has a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
During the RIRS procedure, a thin instrument called a flexible renoscope is used to break the kidney stone using a laser or other energy source. Large fragments are removed, and pulverized fragments are expelled naturally. If any suspicious formations are detected, a biopsy may be taken, and endoscopic scraping may be performed in the same session.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery has become an important alternative for kidney stone treatment with the development of new-generation flexible renoscopes and holmium lasers, which offer effective and safe stone breaking. Most small and medium-sized kidney stones can be successfully treated with RIRS, and the type of stone can be analyzed after the procedure to determine the best course of prevention or treatment.
The advantages of RIRS over traditional surgery include a quicker resolution of the problem, elimination of prolonged pain after surgery, faster recovery, and minimal morbidity. RIRS is a safe and efficient way to treat kidney stones, and the cost of RIRS kidney stone treatment can be discussed with a healthcare provider.