Kidney Stone Treatment - Dr. Aditya K. Sharma

RIRS for Kidney Stone

RIRS stands for Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery and is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat kidney stones. It is a relatively new and advanced technique that involves using a small fiberoptic instrument called a ureteroscope to enter the urinary tract through the urethra and then advancing it through the bladder and up into the ureter and kidney.

During the procedure, the surgeon uses the ureteroscope to locate the kidney stone and then uses small instruments, such as lasers, to break up the stone into small pieces, which can then be easily removed through the ureteroscope. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and patients typically go home the same day or the next day.

RIRS has several advantages over other surgical techniques for kidney stones. It is minimally invasive, which means there is less trauma to the body, and patients experience less pain and a quicker recovery time. Additionally, RIRS can be used to treat stones of all sizes and types, including complex stones that may not be treatable with other techniques.

However, like any medical procedure, RIRS also has risks and potential complications, such as bleeding, infection, and injury to the urinary tract. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of RIRS with your healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for you.

How kidney stones are removed ?

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedure.

A small cut (incision) is made in your back, and the nephroscope is passed through it and into your kidney.
The stone is either pulled out or broken into smaller pieces using a laser or pneumatic energy. PCNL is always carried out under general anesthetic.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy PCNL is a surgery to remove large stones directly from the kidney.

Advantages of Supine PCNL.

Supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for removing kidney stones. Some advantages of the supine PCNL approach include:

Reduced morbidity: Supine PCNL reduces the risk of complications associated with other positions, such as prone PCNL, such as respiratory distress, renal injury, and venous congestion.
Improved access to the lower pole: The supine position allows for easier access to the lower pole of the kidney, where stones are more likely to be located.
Reduced anesthesia time: Supine PCNL requires less anesthesia time compared to other positions, which can reduce the risk of complications associated with prolonged anesthesia.
Easier for the surgeon: The supine position provides better ergonomic conditions for the surgeon, who can operate more comfortably and with greater precision.
Shorter hospital stays: Patients who undergo supine PCNL often experience a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery time compared to other surgical approaches.

However, it’s worth noting that the choice of surgical approach will depend on several factors, including the size, location, and type of kidney stone, as well as the patient’s overall health and medical history.