{"id":2620,"date":"2026-03-10T11:27:31","date_gmt":"2026-03-10T11:27:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/?p=2620"},"modified":"2026-10-13T16:10:48","modified_gmt":"2026-10-13T16:10:48","slug":"how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/","title":{"rendered":"Ureteroscopy for Kidney Stones: Procedure, Effectiveness, and Recovery"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Ureteroscopy, known as scalpel-free kidney stone removal, is the process of breaking or removing stones by entering through the urinary tract and is a minimally invasive treatment method with a high success rate. It generally provides effective results in small and medium-sized stones.<\/p>\n<p>The success rate of kidney stone treatment with ureteroscopy varies between 85\u201395% depending on the size and location of the stone and the patient\u2019s anatomical structure, and stone-free status can be achieved in a single session in most cases. The use of laser technology is an important factor that increases success.<\/p>\n<p>The recovery process after ureteroscopy is generally fast, and patients can return to their daily lives in a short time. Mild pain, a burning sensation, or temporary urinary tract irritation may be seen after the procedure, but the risk of serious complications is low and can be controlled.<\/p>\n<p>Ureteroscopy, which is among scalpel-free kidney stone surgery methods, is frequently preferred today because it is less traumatic compared to open surgery. It stands out as an effective and reliable option, especially in patients with recurrent stone disease.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#In_Which_Stones_Is_Ureteroscopy_More_Effective\" >In Which Stones Is Ureteroscopy More Effective?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#The_Role_of_Laser_Technology_in_Ureteroscopy\" >The Role of Laser Technology in Ureteroscopy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#The_Minimally_Invasive_Advantage_of_Ureteroscopy\" >The Minimally Invasive Advantage of Ureteroscopy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#Contributions_of_Ureteroscopy_to_Kidney_Health\" >Contributions of Ureteroscopy to Kidney Health<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#Advantages_of_Ureteroscopy_Compared_to_Other_Methods\" >Advantages of Ureteroscopy Compared to Other Methods<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#When_Is_Recovery_After_Ureteroscopy\" >When Is Recovery After Ureteroscopy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#Do_Kidney_Stones_Recur_After_Ureteroscopy\" >Do Kidney Stones Recur After Ureteroscopy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#Is_Ureteroscopy_or_ESWL_More_Effective\" >Is Ureteroscopy or ESWL More Effective?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/how-effective-is-ureteroscopy-for-non-surgical-kidney-stone-removal\/#Differences_Between_Ureteroscopy_and_Laparoscopy\" >Differences Between Ureteroscopy and Laparoscopy<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_Which_Stones_Is_Ureteroscopy_More_Effective\"><\/span>In Which Stones Is Ureteroscopy More Effective?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The success of ureteroscopy is directly related to the location and size of the stone. This method is especially highly effective in ureteral stones. Stones stuck in the urinary canal usually cause intense pain and do not pass spontaneously. In this case, the point where the stone is located is reached directly with ureteroscopy, and the stone can be completely cleaned during the procedure.<\/p>\n<p>In kidney stones, ureteroscopy is mostly preferred for small and medium-sized stones. Flexible devices used to reach stones in the upper, middle, or lower parts of the kidney make it possible to directly see and intervene in the area where the stone is located. In this way, regardless of the stone\u2019s location, the procedure can be performed safely in different compartments of the kidney.<\/p>\n<p>Ureteroscopy is also effective in different stone types. Some stones have a soft structure and can be easily fragmented, while others are quite hard and resistant. In this method, the structure of the stone does not greatly affect the chance of success; since fragmentation and removal can be performed under direct visual control, it can be safely applied to stones with different characteristics.<\/p>\n<p>The size of the stone is also a factor determining effectiveness. Successful results can be achieved with ureteroscopy in stones ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in diameter. While the procedure takes a short time in small stones, it may take slightly longer in large stones. However, in general, it provides a safe and effective treatment for stones of different sizes.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Role_of_Laser_Technology_in_Ureteroscopy\"><\/span>The Role of Laser Technology in Ureteroscopy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In ureteroscopy procedures, laser technology is one of the most important elements that enables kidney stones to be fragmented effectively and safely. While stones were broken with mechanical instruments in traditional methods, today stones can be treated much more precisely thanks to advanced technologies such as holmium laser.<\/p>\n<p>The greatest advantage of laser is that it can fragment stones of every size. While small stones are turned completely into dust, large stones are also divided into smaller pieces and easily expelled from the body. In this way, the possibility of stones remaining in the kidney or urinary tract is greatly reduced.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, applying laser energy in a controlled manner minimizes the risk of damaging surrounding tissues. While there is a possibility of kidney tissue being damaged during stone removal in open surgeries or other methods, thanks to laser, the procedure focuses only on the stone. This helps preserve the structure of the kidney.<\/p>\n<p>Another important contribution is that stones in difficult areas can also be treated. It is often difficult to reach and clean stones located especially in the lower pole of the kidney or in narrow urinary canals. Thanks to laser technology, access to these areas becomes possible and stones can be safely fragmented.<\/p>\n<p>The low risk of pain and complications also highlights the role of laser. Since stones are divided into small pieces, their passage through the urinary tract becomes easier. Thus, severe pain related to passing kidney stones is not experienced after the procedure.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Minimally_Invasive_Advantage_of_Ureteroscopy\"><\/span>The Minimally Invasive Advantage of Ureteroscopy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Thanks to its minimally invasive structure, ureteroscopy provides many advantages to patients. First of all, the recovery time is quite short compared to open surgeries. Most patients can stand up on the same day after the operation and return to their daily life within a few days. This situation provides great convenience especially for individuals with an active work life.<\/p>\n<p>Another important advantage is that blood loss during the procedure is extremely low. Because tissues are not cut, major vessels are not damaged. This situation also significantly reduces the risk of infection. This safety factor is especially valuable for patients in older age groups.<\/p>\n<p>Among the minimally invasive advantages of ureteroscopy, the aesthetic factor also takes place. While open surgeries leave permanent scars on the body, no externally visible scar occurs in ureteroscopy. Patients experience a more comfortable recovery process both physically and psychologically.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, this method preserves the structure of the kidney and causes minimum damage to healthy tissues. Stones are fragmented and removed with the help of laser, thus kidney functions are preserved in the best possible way.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Contributions_of_Ureteroscopy_to_Kidney_Health\"><\/span>Contributions of Ureteroscopy to Kidney Health<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Ureteroscopy not only ensures the removal of kidney stones; it also makes a major contribution to protecting kidney health. When kidney stones are not treated in time, they can block urine flow and lead to increased pressure in the kidney, infections, and even kidney failure. Thanks to ureteroscopy, these risks are minimized.<\/p>\n<p>The most important contribution of this method in terms of kidney health is that it ensures urine flow returns to normal quickly. When stones are fragmented or removed, the obstruction in the urinary tract disappears. Thus, the pressure accumulated in the kidney decreases and the functions of the organ are preserved.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, ureteroscopy is a procedure performed without directly damaging kidney tissue. While an incision is made in the kidney in open surgeries, only natural routes are used in this method. This preserves the tissue integrity of the kidney and supports its healthy function in the long term.<\/p>\n<p>The reduced risk of infection also directly contributes to kidney health. When stones remain in the urinary tract, bacterial growth becomes easier and kidney infections are frequently seen. When stones are removed with ureteroscopy, this infection risk also decreases significantly.<\/p>\n<p>Another important contribution is the preservation of kidney functions. Especially in patients with stones in both kidneys, the kidneys can be safely cleaned thanks to ureteroscopy. This reduces the possibility of developing kidney failure in the future.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Advantages_of_Ureteroscopy_Compared_to_Other_Methods\"><\/span>Advantages of Ureteroscopy Compared to Other Methods<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Methods used in kidney stone treatment can be listed as ESWL, PNL, open surgery, and ureteroscopy (URS). Each method has its own area of use, advantage, and limitation.<\/p>\n<p>ESWL is generally preferred for small stones that are freely located inside the kidney. The stone is fragmented with shock waves sent from outside the body. Recovery time is quite fast and the procedure is non-invasive. However, there may be a possibility that the stones do not break completely or that the fragments block the urinary tract.<\/p>\n<p>PNL is especially applied in stones larger than 2 cm or stones located in difficult-to-reach areas of the kidney. The stones are removed by entering the kidney through a small hole opened from the waist area. It is highly effective in large stone burden, but since it is a surgical intervention, the recovery time is slightly longer.<\/p>\n<p>Open surgery is rarely preferred today. It may still be an option in very large and complex stones. Since it requires extensive surgical intervention, the recovery time is longer compared to other methods.<\/p>\n<p>Ureteroscopy (URS), on the other hand, enables access to stones by entering through the urinary tract. The URS method provides successful results in the treatment of stones located in the urinary canal. The ability to fragment stones of different sizes with laser technology makes the method flexible. Recovery time is generally short.<\/p>\n<p>Which method is appropriate varies according to the size and location of the stone, the patient\u2019s general health condition, and the physician\u2019s evaluation. Each method stands out in certain situations. Therefore, the guidance of a urology specialist is of great importance for patients to receive the most accurate treatment plan.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_Is_Recovery_After_Ureteroscopy\"><\/span>When Is Recovery After Ureteroscopy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After the ureteroscopy procedure is completed, one of the most important questions patients wonder about is how long it will take them to return to daily life. In general, the recovery process after this method is short; however, it may vary from patient to patient.<\/p>\n<p>In the first few days, mild bleeding in the urine, burning, and a feeling of frequent urination may be experienced. These are generally considered normal complaints and decrease over time. During this period, fluid consumption is important both to provide relief and to help stone fragments pass more easily.<\/p>\n<p>In some patients, the urinary tract needs to remain open during the procedure. For this, a temporary stent may be used. Until this stent is removed, groin pain, difficulty urinating, or a constant urge to urinate may be felt. As soon as the stent is removed, these complaints largely disappear.<\/p>\n<p>Most patients can return to work, social life, and light activities within a few days. However, activities such as heavy exercise, long-distance running, or lifting weights should be avoided. It is possible to return to normal lifestyle habits after doctor controls are completed.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Kidney_Stones_Recur_After_Ureteroscopy\"><\/span>Do Kidney Stones Recur After Ureteroscopy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Stones can be completely cleaned with ureteroscopy, but this does not mean that stones will never form again in the person. Because kidney stone disease is not only a problem consisting of the presence of existing stones. As long as the lifestyle, dietary pattern, genetic characteristics, and metabolic diseases that lead to stone formation continue, there is always a possibility of new stones developing.<\/p>\n<p>Studies conducted in medicine show that approximately one-third of people with a history of kidney stones may develop stones again within 5 years. The risk of stone recurrence is higher especially in people who do not drink enough water, consume too much salt and protein, have a family history of kidney stones, or have metabolic disorders such as gout and obesity. In addition, the structure of the stone also determines the possibility of recurrence. For example, calcium oxalate stones are the most common stones and have a high tendency to form again.<\/p>\n<p>Regular follow-ups after ureteroscopy ensure that possible new stones are detected at an early stage. In addition, the type of stone can be determined with stone analysis, and personalized nutrition and treatment recommendations can be made accordingly. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding salt and processed foods, and balancing calcium and protein intake significantly reduce the risk of stone recurrence.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Ureteroscopy_or_ESWL_More_Effective\"><\/span>Is Ureteroscopy or ESWL More Effective?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Ureteroscopy (URS) and ESWL (stone breaking with shock waves from outside the body) are the two most commonly used methods in kidney stone treatment today. The answer to the question of which method is more effective depends on certain factors.<\/p>\n<p>In ureteroscopy, the stone is directly seen and broken with the help of laser or removed whole. Thanks to ureteroscopy, effective treatment is possible even in stones that are large in size or not easily broken due to their hardness. The advantage of ureteroscopy is the possibility of completely cleaning the stones during the procedure. In addition, while ESWL is often insufficient in stones stuck in the ureteral canal, ureteroscopy provides effective results by reaching these stones directly.<\/p>\n<p>ESWL is a method preferred for smaller and softer stones, allowing stones to be broken with shock waves from outside. No incision is made during the procedure, and anesthesia is generally not required or is applied very lightly. However, it may take time for the stone to be completely broken and expelled from the body. Several sessions may be needed, and it may not always be possible to completely clean all stones without fragments.<\/p>\n<p>When the two methods are compared, ESWL may be a more appropriate option for stones smaller than 2 cm. However, ureteroscopy gives more effective results in larger, harder, or complicated stones. Moreover, with ureteroscopy, whether a stone remains after the procedure can be seen immediately and additional intervention can be performed if necessary. Therefore, both methods have advantages, and the choice is made according to the characteristics of the stone.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Differences_Between_Ureteroscopy_and_Laparoscopy\"><\/span>Differences Between Ureteroscopy and Laparoscopy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Ureteroscopy (URS) and laparoscopy are two modern surgical methods used in kidney stone treatment. Both are less invasive compared to open surgery, meaning they cause less harm to the patient. However, there are important differences in terms of their application methods, areas of use, and recovery processes.<\/p>\n<p>Ureteroscopy is an endoscopic treatment method performed by entering through the urinary tract. No incision is made anywhere on the body. The kidney or ureter is reached with thin and flexible devices advanced through the urinary canal. After the stone is seen, it is fragmented with laser or removed with special instruments. Therefore, no external intervention is made to the kidney during the procedure. This method is especially very effective in medium and small-sized stones. Recovery time is short, and the patient usually returns to normal life within a few days.<\/p>\n<p>Laparoscopy is performed by making several small incisions in the abdomen or flank area. A camera and surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions. Large stones inside the kidney or blocking the urinary tract are directly seen and removed. Laparoscopy is especially preferred in very large, complicated stones or stones that cannot be treated with other methods. Recovery time is slightly longer compared to ureteroscopy, but it is much shorter and more comfortable compared to open surgery.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ureteroscopy, known as scalpel-free kidney stone removal, is the process of breaking or removing stones by entering through the urinary tract and is a minimally invasive treatment method with a high success rate. It generally provides effective results in small and medium-sized stones. The success rate of kidney stone treatment with ureteroscopy varies between 85\u201395% [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2618,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2620","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2620","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2620"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2620\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5168,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2620\/revisions\/5168"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2618"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2620"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2620"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/berkanresorlu.com.tr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2620"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}