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RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) uses a flexible ureteroscope to remove kidney stones, while URSL (Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy) uses a rigid or semi-rigid ureteroscope to break up stones in the ureter. Knowing the difference is crucial for selecting the most effective and least invasive treatment based on stone location and size. While this page will provide you with significant information related to both procedures, it is also important that you speak to our expert urologists to make the correct treatment decision.
RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) uses a flexible ureteroscope to remove kidney stones, while ... Read More
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RIRS, or Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery, is a modern method used to treat kidney stones. During the procedure, a doctor will guide a flexible ureteroscope, a thin viewing instrument, through your urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body), bladder and then into your ureter (the tube connecting your kidney and bladder). The ureteroscope has a light and camera on its tip, allowing the doctor to look for kidney stones.
Once the stone is located, it is broken into tiny pieces using a laser. These pieces can then be easily passed out of the body through urine. Since this procedure does not involve any cuts or incisions, it’s less painful than other treatments, and recovery time is quicker.
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Ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL) is another effective treatment for kidney stones. It involves using a similar instrument as in RIRS, called a ureteroscope, to locate the stone. This time, however, the stone is destroyed using shock waves rather than a laser.
These shock waves, produced by a device called a lithotripter, create strong vibrations that crush the stone into small parts. These pieces are small enough to be passed out of the body through urine. Just like RIRS, URSL is also minimally invasive.
RIRS is generally advised when the size of the kidney stone is less than 1.5 centimetres. However, it can be used to treat larger stones as well in some cases. The decision on whether RIRS or URSL is more suitable depends on various factors, such as the size, location and composition of the stone, as well as your overall health.
The doctor will make this decision after examining you and conducting the necessary tests. You may also discuss it with your doctor if you have any preferences based on your comfort level and understanding of the procedures.
Remember, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice for a successful and smooth recovery. Don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you may have about these procedures. They’re there to help you through every step of your healthcare journey.
You might be advised to undergo URSL if you have a kidney stone that is too large to pass naturally, typically more than 4 mm in diameter. Similarly, if the stone is causing severe pain, infection, or blocking urine flow, your doctor may recommend URSL. In this procedure, a thin viewing instrument (ureteroscope) is used to locate the stones, which are then broken down into smaller fragments using laser energy. These pieces can then be easily passed out of the body through urine.
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RIRS is an effective technique for managing kidney stones. It offers many benefits, which include:
It’s also worth mentioning that RIRS allows doctors to treat stones located anywhere in the kidney with precision and effectiveness.
URSL also comes with its own set of benefits. Let’s take a closer look:
Through the comparison of RIRS and URSL, it’s evident that both procedures have their own unique advantages. Your doctor will recommend the right treatment based on your specific condition and the characteristics of the kidney stones.
While it has its advantages, like any medical procedure, RIRS comes with its share of risks. The most common complications you may face include:
Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision about your treatment options.
URSL is another technique used to treat kidney stones. URSL also has potential risks, including:
Having a talk with your family doctor about these risks will allow you to weigh your options and pursue the best course of action for your health.
Once you’ve undergone RIRS, it’s important to know what to expect during recovery. Here are some key points:
Remember, each person’s recovery is unique. It’s important to tune into your body and communicate openly with your doctor about what you’re experiencing during the recovery phase.
Recovery post-URSL is generally swift, with most patients being discharged from the hospital on the same day. However, there might be some discomfort, like blood in urine or frequent urge to urinate, for a few days following the procedure.
Understanding the key differences between RIRS and URSL can help you make the right choice depending on your specific healthcare needs. Let’s get started.
| Criteria | RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) | URSL (Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy) |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | In this procedure, a flexible ureteroscope is passed through the urethra and bladder to reach the kidney. The stones are then directly visualised and fragmented using a laser. | This involves passing a thin, rigid instrument known as a ureteroscope through the urethra and bladder to reach the ureter, where the stones are broken down by a laser. |
| Cuts or Incisions | This is performed without any incisions, hence, it’s often referred to as a minimally invasive procedure. | Similar to RIRS, this procedure also doesn’t require any incisions. |
| Surgery Duration | The average duration for this type of surgery is between 1 to 3 hours. | Typically, URSL surgeries can be completed in about 1 to 2 hours. |
| Recovery | Patients can typically return home the same day, with full recovery taking around one week. | Patients are usually discharged on the same day but may take slightly longer, around two weeks, to fully recover. |
| Cost | While the cost can vary depending on various factors, on average, it is slightly higher than URSL due to the specialised equipment used. | Generally, URSL is less expensive compared to RIRS. |
| Success Rate | The success rate of RIRS is very high, often exceeding 90%, especially for smaller stones. | The success rate of URSL is also high, but slightly lower than RIRS for larger stones. |
It’s always best to consult with your family doctor or a urologist before making any decisions. They will be able to advise you on the best treatment option based on your individual health condition and lifestyle needs.
RIRS surgery is generally not very painful, as it is performed under anesthesia. Patients may experience mild discomfort or soreness after the procedure, which can typically be managed with pain medication.
Both RIRS and URSL have their pros and cons; RIRS is less invasive and better for kidney stones, while URSL is effective for stones in the ureter. The best treatment depends on individual factors, and the doctor will decide based on the stone’s location, size, and the patient’s overall health.
Yes, DJ (Double J) stenting is often used in URSL to ensure proper drainage of urine, prevent ureteral obstruction, and facilitate healing after the procedure.
Patients can usually go home the same day or the day after RIRS, depending on their recovery and the doctor’s assessment.
Patients can typically go home the same day or within 24 hours after URSL, depending on their recovery and the doctor’s evaluation.
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I was so scared to have surgery for my kidney stones, because of the cut but Pristyn Care offered an advanced therapy which doesn’t involve any incision. The doctors were great, and the staff was so helpful. I recovered quickly and went back to my normal routine.
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Pristyn Care provided personalized attention during my kidney stone treatment journey. They understood my individual needs and concerns, and took care of me in every possible way, making me feel valued as a patient.
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Pristyn care provides you with ultimate and effective kidney stone treatment. They take good care of you and are always there to solve your concerns.
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Pristyn Care's adenoidectomy service was exceptional. The ENT specialist I consulted was caring and experienced, making me feel at ease throughout the entire process. They thoroughly explained the procedure and the benefits of adenoid removal. The surgery itself was smooth, and Pristyn Care's post-operative care and follow-ups were outstanding. Thanks to their expertise, my breathing has significantly improved, and I am grateful for their support.
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Managing kidney stones was challenging, but Pristyn Care's urologists were attentive and caring. They recommended a personalized treatment plan, and the support I received during the treatment process was commendable. Thanks to Pristyn Care, my kidney stone issue has been resolved, and I feel healthier.
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