Dr. Shaleen Sharma
Urologist Surgeon
View ProfileKidney stones, though often small and manageable, can cause significant pain and disruption to daily life. Traditional treatment options, like open surgery or PCNL, while effective, can involve larger incisions and longer recovery times. Fortunately, advancements in technology have introduced Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS), a minimally invasive and versatile procedure offering several advantages for suitable patients.
At Meerut Urologist, Dr. Shaleen Sharma and Dr. Sarat Chandra Garg, our renowned urologist, are committed to providing patients with access to a wide range of treatment options for kidney stones. We are proud to offer RIRS as a viable option for many patients, ensuring effective stone removal with minimal discomfort and disruption.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used for the treatment of kidney stones. During RIRS, a flexible ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra and guided up into the urinary tract to reach the kidney where the stone is located. Through this approach, the surgeon can directly visualize the stone and use small instruments to fragment it into smaller pieces, which are then either removed or allowed to pass naturally through urine. RIRS is preferred for smaller stones or stones located in difficult-to-reach areas of the kidney, offering advantages such as reduced recovery times, minimal discomfort, and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is a minimally invasive, advanced technique for treating various urinary tract conditions, particularly complex or large kidney stones. Utilizing a thin, flexible scope inserted through the urethra, RIRS allows for direct visualization and fragmentation of stones within the kidney, offering faster recovery times and less discomfort compared to traditional open surgery.
Source: American Urological Association (AUA)
This innovative approach offers several benefits:
The suitability for RIRS is determined by several factors, including:
Stone size and location: Generally, stones smaller than 2 cm located anywhere within the kidney are considered candidates for RIRS.
Overall health: Certain medical conditions may influence candidacy, and Dr. Sharma or Dr. Garg will assess your individual circumstances during a consultation.
Similar to other minimally invasive procedures, RIRS is typically performed under general anesthesia. Here's a brief overview of the procedure:
Pre-operative consultation: You will meet with Dr. Sharma or Dr. Garg to discuss your medical history, symptoms, and suitability for RIRS. They will explain the procedure in detail, answer your questions, and address any concerns you may have.
Preparation: Blood tests, imaging studies, and other necessary preparations will be conducted before the procedure.
The procedure: Under general anesthesia, a ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra and bladder, and then navigated up the ureter into the kidney.
Stone removal: Once the stone is visualized, laser energy or ultrasonic waves are used to fragment the stones into smaller pieces, which are then removed through the ureteroscope or a basket.
Recovery: After the procedure, you will be monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home or transferred to your hospital room for observation. Most patients typically recover quickly and experience minimal discomfort.
Following RIRS, you can expect some mild discomfort and burning sensation while urinating, which is typically managed with pain medication. You may also experience blood in your urine for a few days after the procedure.
Our team will provide detailed instructions on post-operative care, including pain management, dietary recommendations, and monitoring for any potential complications. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing.
At Meerut Urologist, we are committed to providing patients with advanced and effective treatment options for kidney stones. Here's why you should choose us for RIRS:
Experienced and skilled urologist: Dr. Shaleen Sharma and Dr. Sarat Chandra Garg possess extensive experience in performing RIRS procedures, ensuring safe and effective stone removal with this versatile technique.
Advanced technology: We utilize state-of-the-art equipment specifically designed for RIRS, allowing for precise stone targeting and minimal tissue disruption.
Personalized care: We are dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care throughout your entire treatment journey. Our team will ensure you are informed and involved in the decision-making process, addressing any concerns you may have.
If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones or have any questions about RIRS, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Sharma or Dr. Garg at Meerut Urologist. We are here to help you explore treatment options and guide you towards a path to optimal health.