What is RIRS?
RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat kidney stones. A thin, flexible tube called a ureteroscope is passed through the urinary passage to reach the kidney.
The stones are usually broken into smaller pieces using a laser and the fragments are removed or passed naturally in the urine.
RIRS may be recommended depending on the size, number and location of the stones, as well as your symptoms and overall health. A urologist can help determine if RIRS is the right treatment for you.
When is RIRS Surgery recommended?
Not every kidney stone requires RIRS. Some smaller stones may pass naturally or can be managed with other treatments. RIRS may be recommended when a stone is unlikely to pass on its own or requires active treatment.
RIRS may be considered when you have:
The most suitable treatment depends on the stone and your individual health condition.
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What are the risks of delaying Kidney Stone treatment?
Not every kidney stone needs immediate treatment. Some stones can be safely monitored under medical guidance. However, certain stones may grow, move or cause blockage if left untreated.
Depending on the size and location of the stone, delaying recommended treatment may lead to:
Persistent or worsening pain
Kidney stone pain may become more frequent or severe.
Urinary blockage
A stone can obstruct the normal flow of urine from the kidney.
Repeated urinary infections
Blocked or poorly draining urine may increase the risk of infection.
Blood in the urine
Kidney stones can irritate the urinary tract and cause blood to appear in the urine.
Kidney swelling
A blockage in urine flow can cause urine to build up in the kidney.
Reduced kidney function
Severe or prolonged obstruction can potentially affect kidney function and requires medical attention.
Not every kidney stone requires surgery. Your urologist can assess the stone and guide you on whether observation, medication or a procedure such as RIRS is appropriate.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF TIMELY RIRS SURGERY?
When RIRS is recommended, treatment may help:
The potential benefits of RIRS depend on the size, number and location of the stones, your symptoms and your overall health.
HOW WE REVIEW YOUR CASE
A second opinion, step by step.
01
Medical history
Understanding your pain, urinary symptoms, previous stone episodes and treatments.
02
Reports & scans
Reviewing your ultrasound, CT scan, X-ray, urine tests and other available medical reports.
03
Clinical assessment
Assessing the size, number and location of your kidney stones and their effect on your urinary system.
04
Treatment review
Understanding why RIRS was recommended and whether it is suitable for your condition.
05
Discuss options
Exploring suitable treatment options, including observation, medication, other stone procedures or RIRS.
06
Expert guidance
A personalized second opinion with clear next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
RIRS may be recommended for kidney stones that are difficult to pass naturally, particularly stones that are larger, persistent, or located in areas that make other treatments less suitable.