Ureteroscopy (URS) is one of the most common ways to remove a kidney or ureteral stone — and it uses no incision at all. A thin, flexible or rigid telescope is passed up the natural urinary path, from the urethra through the bladder and into the ureter or kidney, until the surgeon can see the stone directly. From there the stone is either captured whole in a tiny basket or broken up with a laser and the fragments removed. For stones that won't pass on their own, ureteroscopy offers high success in a single session with a quick recovery, which is why it has become a first-line treatment worldwide.
When Is Ureteroscopy Used?
Ureteroscopy is chosen for stones lodged in the ureter, for kidney stones of small-to-moderate size, and when shock-wave lithotripsy (SWL) has failed or is unsuitable — for example dense stones, lower-pole kidney stones, or patients on blood thinners. It is also the route for inspecting the upper urinary tract when imaging is inconclusive. Very large stones are more often treated by percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL); the urologist matches the method to stone size, location, and composition.
How the Procedure Works
Under general or spinal anesthesia, the ureteroscope is advanced under direct vision and X-ray guidance. Once the stone is reached, one of two strategies follows. Basket retrieval: a fine nitinol basket — such as INVAMED's StoneMaster stone extraction basket — is opened beyond the stone, closed around it, and withdrawn, removing the stone intact. Laser lithotripsy: a laser fiber fragments or dusts the stone into pieces small enough to pass or be basketed. The two are often combined — laser to reduce, basket to retrieve. The whole procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes and is done as day surgery in most cases.
Why a Stent Is Often Placed Afterward
At the end of many ureteroscopies the surgeon places a temporary ureteral (double-J) stent to keep the ureter open while post-procedure swelling settles and any residual fragments clear. This is routine and protective — but it is also the source of most of the after-effects patients notice. Our companion guide, living with a ureteral stent, covers what is normal and what is not; the essential rule is that a stent must be removed or exchanged on schedule and never forgotten.
Recovery
Most people go home the same day and return to normal activity within a few days. Expect some burning with urination, a frequent urge to go, pink-tinged urine, and mild flank discomfort for the first days — amplified if a stent is in place. Drinking well helps flush the system and pass any fragments. Contact your urologist for fever or chills (possible infection), pain not controlled by prescribed medication, or inability to urinate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ureteroscopy painful?
It is done under anesthesia, so not during the procedure. Afterwards, urinary burning and flank discomfort for a few days are common, especially if a stent was placed.
How long does ureteroscopy take?
Typically 30 to 90 minutes depending on stone size, number, and location, and it is usually performed as day surgery.
Will I always need a stent after ureteroscopy?
Not always, but stents are placed frequently to protect the healing ureter. When used, they are temporary and removed on a defined schedule.
How successful is ureteroscopy at removing stones?
Stone-free rates are high — often in a single session — which is a major reason ureteroscopy is a first-line treatment for ureteral and many kidney stones.
Related on INVAMED
Companion: ureteral stents explained. Patient hub: kidney stones, BPH & urologic conditions. Portfolio: urology & incontinence management.
This article is for education only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment — always consult a qualified physician about your situation. Device availability and regulatory status vary by country; contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.