The tube is flexible and easily bends within the renal system to enter the kidney and ureter. The tube or the endoscope is inserted into the ureter to get images of different parts of the kidney.

Next, a thin laser fiber is passed through the stone and scope which are fragmented into small particles. This makes it easier to wash out with urine or through saline irrigation.

This procedure is preferred by a significant number of patients as it requires no incision. The patient is usually given either local or general anesthesia.

Dr. Nishith Reddy, one of the best urologists in Hyderabad, possesses the necessary knowledge and skill to perform RIRS on a patient for kidney stone removal. Book an appointment with him for any issue regarding your kidney health.

Who Needs an RIRS?

RIRS is generally used by urologists to remove stones from the kidneys. However, there are several other methods available for kidney stone removal. So, why should one go under this particular procedure?

A urologist suggests RIRS to a patient when:

  • The kidney stones are too big for Lithotripsy
  • It is a child with kidney stones
  • The patient has bleeding disorders in the kidneys
  • There are strictures in the kidney
  • The other treatment methods have failed
  • The patient has obesity

It is always recommended to consult with your urologist before you make up your mind about any such procedure. The urologist can tell you what would be best for you.

Dr. Nishith Reddy, a urologist at Hyderabad Multi-specialty Hospital, can help you take the right decision regarding your RIRS.

Important Facts to Know about RIRS

  • If your urologist has suggested you to get RIRS done, you need to get regular health check-ups prior to the surgery to ensure your health is okay.
  • In certain cases, the urologist may suggest the insertion of a DJ stent into your ureter at least 14 days before your RIRS.
  • The surgery is for patients with kidney stones that are 1.5cm in diameter.
  • The surgery generally lasts for around 1 to 2 hours.
  • Patients need to rest properly for at least one day after the surgery.
  • The patients are advised to take certain medications for 5 days following the surgery.
  • The patient needs to visit the urologist again after a week from the surgery to confirm that the stones are completely removed from the body.

Dr. Nishtih Reddy is one of the top urologists in Hyderabad. Book an appointment with him to get complete care for your kidney-related issue, including the RIRS.

Advantages of RIRS

RIRS has several advantages over other procedures. In fact, many urologists suggest RIRS to their patients because of the following advantages:

  • It offers quicker extraction of stones when compared to other conventional methods.
  • The procedure is minimally invasive.
  • The patient does not feel much pain during the procedure.
  • The blood loss during the surgery is minimal and the renal tissue remains undamaged.
  • The recovery process is quick.

Dr. Nishith Reddy generally performs RIRS for kidney stone removal in one sitting. Book your appointment now to get a proper diagnosis for your condition from the best in the business.

Complications of RIRS

Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery does not usually cause any side effects. However, a small percentage of patients may encounter a few complications following the surgery, including:

  • Urinary Infection
  • Fever
  • Flank pain
  • Acute urinary retention
  • Ureter avulsion
  • Fornix rupture
  • Transient haematuria
  • Sepsis
  • Bleeding

If you experience any of these side effects after the surgery, do inform your urologist about it.

What to Expect After Your RIRS?

Before you go under an RIRS, it is important to know what is going to happen after the surgery. However, there is no need to be alarmed.

Once the surgery is done, the urologist inserts a urinary catheter into the urethra. This helps relieve pain and difficulty peeing. The catheter is generally left for 8 to 24 hours.

Next, you are shifted to the recovery room for the next 6 to 8 hours for monitoring. You will then be taken to a hospital room where you need to rest for at least 24 hours.

During your recovery, you will be advised to drink plenty of fluids every day. You need to consume at least 3 liters of fluid to avoid infection and maintain urine output.

If your health seems fine, you may get back to your regular activities the very next day of the surgery after getting discharged from the hospital. However, you do need to visit your urologist for a follow-up.

Frequently Asked Questions about RIRS

Q: How long does RIRS surgery take?

A: The RIRS surgery usually takes 5 minutes to 60 minutes, unless the procedure is repeated or the patient's condition is complicated. In that case, it may take around 90 minutes to 120 minutes.

Q: Can RIRS surgery remove large kidney stones?

A: No, RIRS surgery cannot remove large kidney stones. RIRS is preferred when the size of the stone is less than 2 cm.

Q: How long does it take for the blood to appear in the urine after RIRS surgery?

A: It is completely normal to have a small amount of blood in the urine for up to 7 days if the urethral stent is in place, or up to 3 days if there is no stent. A person may also notice pink, red or brown urine. In case of heavy bleeding or blood clots, the person must immediately notify a doctor or urologist.

Q: Are there any food restrictions immediately after RIRS surgery?

A: Yes, after RIRS surgery there is food restriction to prevent the recurrence of kidney stones. The patient must follow a healthy diet. The patient needs to limit the consumption of animal protein, reduce oxalate from food, reduce sodium consumption and get the right amount of calcium in food.