RIRS Treatment for Kidney Stone
Kidney stones can be a painful and recurring issue that affects many individuals. At Apex
Multispeciality Hospital, we specialize in providing cutting-edge treatment options to effectively
manage and eliminate kidney stones, ensuring our patients receive the best care possible. One of
the best multispeciality hospitals in Pune. we offer Retrograde advanced treatment Intrarenal
Surgery (RIRS). In this blog, we'll explore what RIRS entails, its benefits, the associated risks,
and where to seek treatment, specifically at Apex Multispeciality Hospital.
What is RIRS?
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to
remove kidney stones. Unlike traditional open surgery, RIRS is performed using a flexible
ureteroscope, which allows the surgeon to access the kidney through the urethra, bladder, and
ureter. This approach eliminates the need for external incisions, making the procedure less
invasive and reducing recovery time
Symptoms of Kidney Stones:
Kidney stones can present with a variety of symptoms, including:
 Severe Pain: Often described as one of the most intense pains, it can be felt in the back,
side, lower abdomen, or groin.
 Hematuria: Blood in the urine, which can appear pink, red, or brown.
 Nausea and Vomiting: Often accompanies the severe pain.
 Frequent Urination: A persistent need to urinate, often with small amounts of urine.
 Fever and Chills: If an infection is present along with the stones.
Causes of Kidney Stones:
Understanding the causes of kidney stones can help in preventing their formation. Some common
causes include:
 Dehydration: Inadequate water intake leads to concentrated urine, which increases the
risk of stone formation.
 Diet: High intake of oxalate-rich foods (like spinach and nuts), salt, and protein can
contribute to kidney stone formation.
 Genetics: A family history of kidney stones can increase your risk.
 Medical Conditions: Kidney stones can be more likely in people with conditions such as
hyperparathyroidism, gout, and urinary tract infections.
 Obesity: Excess weight can alter the chemical balance in the urine, promoting stone
formation.
Diagnosis of Kidney Stones:
Accurate diagnosis is the first step in effectively treating kidney stones. At Apex Multispeciality
Hospital, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic methods to determine and evaluate the size, location,
and composition of kidney stones. Our diagnostic process includes:
 Medical History and Physical Examination: Understanding the patient's signs, medical
history, and any earlier events of kidney stones.
 Imaging Tests: Utilization of ultrasound, X-rays, CT scans, and MRI to imagine the
stones and choose their size and position.
 Urine Analysis: Testing the urine for crystals, infection, and blood to deliver insights
into the underlying cause of stone formation.
 Blood Tests: Checking for high levels of calcium, uric acid, and other imports that can
lead to stone formation.
How to take care after RIRS surgery?
After RIRS surgery, self-care is essential to a quick and easy recovery. Here are a few crucial
pointers:
 Hydration: To help wash away any excess stone fragments and stop new stones from
growing, drink a lot of water.
 Medication: Follow your physician's instructions about pain relief and any specified
medicines to control infection.
 Rest: Get sufficient rest to give your body the time it needs to
 Diet: Maintain a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoid foods high in
oxalates and sodium which can contribute to stone formation.
 Follow-up Appointments: Attend all of your scheduled follow-up appointments to track
your progress and resolve any problems.
How Does RIRS Work?
 Anesthesia: The process is usually performed under general anesthesia, provided the
patient is comfortable and pain-free.
 Accessing the Kidney: A flexible ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra and
navigated through the bladder and ureter to reach the kidney.
 Locating the Stone: Once inside the kidney, the surgeon uses the ureteroscope to find
the kidney stone.
 Fragmenting the Stone: Specialized instruments, such as laser fibers or lithotripsy
devices, are used to break the stone into smaller fragments.
 Removing the Fragments: The stone fragments are removed using a basket-like device
or allowed to pass naturally through the urinary tract.
Who is a good candidate for RIRS?
 Kidney stones that are difficult to reach with other treatments.
 Stones with a diameter of under two centimeters.
 Medical conditions that make other types of surgery risky.
However, RIRS might not be appropriate for all patients, such as those with certain anatomical
abnormalities or very large stones. A thorough evaluation by a urologist is necessary to
determine the suitability of RIRS.
How to prepare for RIRS Surgery?
Being ready for the practice contributes to a smooth surgical outcome. Like any other process,
RIRS operation needs preparation to maximize its significance and minimize its risk of
complications. You will accept instructions from your physician to help you get ready for the
procedure. The following is how to get ready for RIRS surgery:
 Talk to the doctor in advance about the course of treatment. This will assist you in getting
ready for what the process entails.
 Tell the doctor about all of the medicines you use. Also, let your physician know ahead of
the period if you have an anesthetic allergy.
 Stop smoking a few weeks before the surgery because it may affect the procedure's
effectiveness.
 Eight to nine hours before the procedure, avoid eating or swallowing anything as this
could affect the anesthetic's effects.
Advantages of RIRS:
 It's a daycare procedure
 Early recovery and less post-operative pain.
 less risk of bleeding than with open/laparoscopic and PCNL procedures.
 Less chance of repeat procedures compared to ESWL.
 Can be used for even larger stones with the advent of Thulium Laser.
 This can be done in patients with high risk and on blood thinners
If you're suffering from kidney stones, don't hesitate to reach out to Apex Multispeciality
Hospital Kalewadi, Pimpri-Chinchwad is one of the best multispeciality hospitals in Pune. Our
dedicated team is here to provide you with the best possible care and help you achieve a stonefree future.
Book An Appointment:
RIRS is a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment option for kidney stones, offering
numerous benefits over traditional surgical methods. If you are suffering from kidney stones and
are considering your treatment options, consult with a urologist at Apex Multispeciality Hospital
to determine if RIRS is the right choice for you. With proper care and lifestyle adjustments, you
can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence and enjoy a pain-free life.