Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery abbreviated as RIRS is the removal of renal stones by the attainment to kidney from the ureter. It is an endo-scopic surgery, which practices a viewing tube called as fibre optic endoscope along with this it contains a laser fibre- Holmium, which is used to treat the renal stones.

In this, once the large stone is eliminated, smaller fragment of stones are removed via stone baskets. Nearly around a stent may be used to push the kidney to expand the drainage.

Procedure:

This surgery involves crushing or blasting of stones by using laser probe else can also be manually removed via forceps. This procedure needs a specialist who has his expertise in RIRS.
During the surgery, the patient is given general or spinal anaesthesia and the flexible scope is inserted via urethra followed by in the kidneys. This surgery doesn’t involve any sort of incisions, henceforth it has a fast recovery. This surgery is very much advantageous since it removes almost all the renal stones without any cut or incision just like walking inside kidney specifically this surgery is far better than the open surgery.

Dependability of RIRS:

• Reliable
• Safe
• Simple and quicker procedure
• Efficient method
• Fast recovery
• Less painful
• Minimal bleeding
• Reduced side effects
• Minimum morbidity
• Minimally invasive
• Fewer complications

RIRS clears kidney stones via flexible uterorenoscopy and lithotripters, which includes holmium laser, certifying no traces of stones left in the kidney.
Use of guide wires, uretral access sheath and stone baskets have heightened the effectiveness of the RIRS procedure.

Cases that are of prime consideration for this treatment are:

• Attempts to eliminate the stones have failed.
• Stones are comparatively larger in size
• Kidneys that are having tumours
• If the patient is a child
• If it is the case of an obese patient
• If the candidate is suffering from bleeding disorders
• If the patient has his survival on anticoagulants

Procedure of the RIRS

Before the surgery:

The urologist will conduct many tests to analyse the position of the renal stones, the normal vitals and health conditions as well as response of the patient to the anaesthesia at least 2 weeks before the surgery. Even the preoperative stenting will also be done just before 2 weeks of the procedure. This stenting makes the passage for ureteroscope to enter the kidneys since the process of dilation takes place.

After the Surgery:

• A urine catheter can be placed for a day or long in the urethra to reduce pain and problem while urinating.
• 24 hour rest is advised to the patient
• Patient is suggested to drink a lot of fluid to urinate sufficiently, that in turn will aid in keeping away the infections.
• After the procedure the patient will feel healthy and absolutely fit to resume everyday activities.