Laser contact ureterolithotripsy of the ureter

A loyalty program is available for surgical interventions in the hospital, which makes treatment even more affordable.

Laser contact ureterolithotripsy - this is the "gold standard" for crushing stones in the ureter. Today, this technique is the most progressive and is widely used in leading urological clinics.

Ureterolithotripsy is a minimally invasive procedure and is performed without incisions. The ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra and guided into the ureter under constant video monitoring. Due to this, as well as the minimal thickness of endoscopic instruments and the use of a holmium laser, the procedure is performed with maximum accuracy, and the risk of complications is practically eliminated.

At "Oxford Medical" ureterolithotripsy is performed by urological surgeons with over 20 years of experience. They work with expert-class equipment and adhere to international standards for the treatment of urolithiasis.

There are several different methods of lithotripsy: remote, contact and percutaneous (through the skin). When stones are localized in the ureter, the option of choice is laser contact ureterolithotripsy. It allows in one session to destroy stones of any size to the state of fine dust, which is then easily excreted from the body.

The main advantages of this technique are:

• endoscopic access, which does not require incisions or punctures;

• crushing of stones of any size and density in one procedure;

• effectiveness in the formation of stones in both ureters;

• short hospitalization period (usually 1 day);

• easy and short rehabilitation period.

Primary diagnosis of stones is usually performed during ultrasound. However, additional examinations may be required to clarify the diagnosis and select the optimal lithotripsy technique. Depending on the indications, the patient may be prescribed X-rays, computed tomography, blood and urine tests.

Immediately before the procedure, electrocardiography (ECG) and preoperative tests are also performed to exclude contraindications to endoscopic intervention and the use of anesthesia.

2 weeks before laser ureterolithotripsy, it is recommended to stop taking medications that affect blood clotting. If general anesthesia is planned for anesthesia, the patient is recommended to switch to a light diet for 2-3 days, and not eat or drink anything on the day of the procedure.

Laser contact ureterolithotripsy of the ureter is performed endoscopically. A ureteroscope equipped with a miniature video camera with a built-in LED is inserted through the urethra. The image from the camera is transmitted to the monitor screen, allowing the doctor to conduct continuous visual control.

After passing the ureteroscope into the ureter and detecting stones, the specialist inserts a laser probe less than 1 mm thick. Usually, a holmium laser with a minimum power of 10 W is used. It effectively crushes stones, but does not have a thermal effect on surrounding tissues.

Crushing stones in the ureter occurs when a laser fiber comes into direct contact with them. Pulses of light are transmitted along it, the frequency and power of which are determined individually by the specialist. As a result, the water contained in the stones instantly boils, which leads to the destruction of molecular bonds. The surrounding tissues are not heated.

After crushing the stones into small fragments, the surgeon extracts them using a special loop or microforceps, freeing the lumen of the ureter for free outflow of urine from the kidney.

A temporary stent (drainage tube) is often installed after contact lithotripsy. It promotes the healing of the ureteral pressure sore, which often occurs at the site of stone formation, and also serves to prevent the formation of a stricture (scar). The stent is usually removed after 2 weeks.

Since laser ureterolithotripsy is performed endoscopically, that is, without damaging the external and internal tissues, the rehabilitation process in most patients is quick and easy. Discharge from the hospital is usually carried out the next day (less often on the third), and after a few days the patient can return to his usual lifestyle.

Within 1-2 weeks after lithotripsy, blood impurities in the urine may appear, as well as discomfort and mild burning during urination. If severe pain or other symptoms appear, you should consult a doctor.

In case of stent placement, a control examination is performed after 2 weeks, after which it is also removed endoscopically.

Until complete recovery (about a month), patients are recommended not to lift weights and avoid intense physical exertion.

Laser contact ureterolithotripsy has become the “gold standard” for removing stones in the ureter. The advantages of the procedure are high efficiency and safety.

Thanks to endoscopic access, there is no blood loss and the likelihood of infection is reduced. Also, since modern ureteroscopes are flexible, thin (up to 3 mm in diameter) and equipped with a powerful optical system, in the hands of an experienced surgeon they practically eliminate the risk of damage to the ureter or other structures. There is also no chance of injury to the walls of the ureter by the laser, since it affects only the stone.

Complications after laser contact ureterolithotripsy are very rare. The most significant is the risk of developing a stricture (rough scar) at the site of stone formation, which may require surgical intervention. To eliminate this, patients are usually given a temporary stent. It promotes healing of the ureteral pressure sore and free outflow of urine from the kidney. The stent is removed in about 2 weeks.

Providing high-quality medical care using modern, effective and safe methods is one of the main priorities of «Oxford Medical». For this purpose, the clinic has installed the latest expert-class equipment and assembled a team of experienced, highly qualified doctors. Our surgeons have already performed hundreds of successful urological operations. 

The cost of laser lithotripsy of the ureter may vary. It depends on the location, number and size of the stones. You can find out the prices for the treatment of urolithiasis at «Oxford Medical» here. A urologist will provide you with more detailed information about the price and features of the procedure during a preliminary consultation. Make an appointment at a time convenient for you.