RIRS: What to Expect & Outcomes
A comprehensive guide to RIRS, a scarless, laser-based procedure for treating kidney stones through the natural urinary passage.
Treatment begins with
Assessment
Surgery
Recovery
Follow-up
This procedure is considered for kidney stones that are not ideal candidates for ESWL, including larger or harder stones.
You may need this if...
These signs may indicate that this treatment is the recommended course of care:
- Kidney stones not suitable for ESWL
- Stones in a location difficult to reach with other methods
- Harder stones needing direct laser fragmentation
- Stones in patients on blood thinners, in select cases
A urologist's evaluation confirms whether this treatment is the right option for you.
What is RIRS?
RIRS uses a flexible scope passed through the natural urinary passage up into the kidney, where a laser breaks the stone into fragments that are removed or left to pass.
The procedure is performed entirely through the urinary passage, leaving no visible scar.
When This Treatment is Considered
This procedure is considered for kidney stones that are not ideal candidates for ESWL, including larger or harder stones.
- Kidney stones not suitable for ESWL
- Stones in a location difficult to reach with other methods
- Harder stones needing direct laser fragmentation
- Stones in patients on blood thinners, in select cases
The Care Pathway
1. Assessment
Imaging confirms stone size, location and the best surgical approach.
2. Surgery
A flexible scope and laser fiber are passed through the natural urinary passage to fragment the stone.
3. Recovery
A temporary stent may be placed to support healing, removed at a follow-up visit.
4. Follow-up
Imaging confirms the kidney is clear of stone fragments.
“Your care team supports you through every stage, from evaluation to recovery and follow-up.”
Expected Benefits and Possible Risks
RIRS clears stones without any incision. As with any procedure, your care team will discuss individual risks such as stent-related discomfort.
Every treatment has potential risks. Your care team will discuss your individual risks before treatment.
Recovery & Follow-up
Most patients go home the same or next day, with a full return to normal activity within about a week.
Your care plan includes pain management, stent removal timing, and follow-up imaging to confirm the stone has cleared.
Careful monitoring, follow-up testing and guidance all play an important role in achieving the best possible outcome.
Questions to Ask Your Care Team
- 1.Am I a candidate for RIRS instead of ESWL or PCNL?
- 2.Will I need a stent, and for how long?
- 3.What does recovery involve?
- 4.How can I prevent new stones from forming?
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right urologist.
Talk to Care GuideRelated Care
A care guide can match your condition to the right urologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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