RIRS, or Retrograde IntraRenal Surgery, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat kidney stones and other conditions within the kidney. It involves accessing the kidney through the urinary tract, without the need for incisions, and using a specialized instrument called a flexible ureteroscope to visualize and treat the problem. Before the procedure, the patient undergoes various tests, such as imaging studies (like CT scans or ultrasound), to evaluate the size, location, and number of kidney stones. Blood tests may also be performed to assess kidney function and check for any underlying medical conditions. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. RIRS is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is unconscious during the procedure and feels no pain.
As the ureteroscope is advanced through the urinary tract, the surgeon can visualize the inside of the kidney on a monitor in real-time. This allows them to identify any kidney stones or other abnormalities and to perform various treatments as needed. After RIRS, patients are typically monitored in a recovery area for a few hours to ensure there are no immediate complications. Pain medications and instructions for post-operative care, such as drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding strenuous activity, may be provided. Patients may experience some blood in the urine and urinary frequency or urgency following the procedure, which usually resolves within a few days. RIRS is considered a safe and effective treatment for kidney stones and other conditions within the kidney, with high rates of success and low complication rates when performed by experienced surgeons. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding structures, and incomplete stone removal. It's important for patients to discuss the potential benefits and risks of RIRS with their healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.
