Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is a minimally invasive procedure to remove kidney stones. A flexible ureteroscope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the kidney. Laser energy breaks the stones into small pieces, which are either removed or flushed out naturally. There are no external cuts, and recovery is usually quick and smooth.
Most RIRS procedures use a Holmium laser and a flexible ureteroscope. The approach may vary depending on the stone’s size, location, and kidney anatomy. Sometimes, tools like access sheaths or retrieval baskets are used to help remove the stones safely and efficiently. The procedure is tailored to each patient’s needs and comfort.
Kidney stones can form due to dehydration, poor fluid intake, high salt or oxalate in the diet, metabolic conditions, or genetic factors. When stones are too difficult to pass on their own or do not respond to medications, RIRS becomes the best option. It’s ideal for small or hard-to-reach stones inside the kidney.
Symptoms such as intense side or back pain, visible blood in urine, repeated urinary infections, or difficulty passing urine may indicate the need for RIRS. If medications or lifestyle changes do not work, or if the stones block urine flow, doctors may suggest this procedure to prevent complications and restore kidney health.
Doctors diagnose the need for RIRS using ultrasound, CT scans, or X-rays to locate and measure kidney stones. They also consider symptoms, urinary flow, kidney function, and past treatment failures. If stones are small, multiple, or located deep inside the kidney, and medications are ineffective, RIRS is typically recommended for safe removal.
During RIRS, doctors insert a flexible scope into the urinary tract to reach the kidney. A laser is used to break stones into small fragments. These pieces are then removed with a basket or flushed naturally through urine. A small stent may be placed to help healing and is removed after a few days.
Key signs that indicate the need for immediate medical evaluation include severe symptoms or sudden changes.
Severe, persistent pain on one side of the back or abdomen may suggest kidney stones and requires urgent evaluation.
Pink, red, or brown urine may indicate internal damage or infection caused by stones in the urinary tract.
Sharp or burning sensation during urination often points to stone movement, infection, or ureteral irritation needing medical attention.
Fever combined with urinary issues, chills, or nausea could signal a kidney infection related to stone obstruction or inflammation.
Frequent UTIs may mean stones are blocking urine flow or hosting bacteria, making surgical stone removal necessary.
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The various option helped me afford treatment. I highly recommend mediSuggest for kidney stone surgery.
Neha Rawat Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery
My coordinator kept me informed and calm. The hospital was clean and modern.
Suresh Pillai Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery
I was scheduled within 2 days, and the surgeon was excellent. Great experience overall
Madhavi Iyer Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery
RIRS was pain-free, and I recovered within 3 days. Very happy with mediSuggest doctors.
Rahul Dev Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery
The team helped at every step—from insurance to discharge. I felt supported and safe.
Pooja Menon Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery
My RIRS procedure was smooth, and I was home the next day. Thank you mediSuggest for the top-class service
Ravindra Singh Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery
RIRS is a minimally invasive surgery to remove kidney stones using a flexible scope passed through the urinary tract, without external cuts.
The procedure is done under anesthesia. Most patients experience mild discomfort after surgery and recover quickly with minimal pain.
Recovery is typically 3–5 days. Most patients return to normal activities within a week, depending on overall health and stone complexity.
Like any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, or ureteral injury. These are rare when performed by skilled surgeons.
Small to medium-sized stones in the kidney or upper ureter are best suited for RIRS. Larger stones may require other techniques.
