RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) uses a laser technique and fiberoptic endoscopy, which is a viewing tube that passes through the urethra and into the kidney to remove stones without making any incisions in the kidney. Under general, local, or regional anesthesia, this procedure is performed. This procedure is carried out by an experienced Urologist.
What happens during RIRS action?
Before the RIRS procedure, the doctor will ask for a laboratory examination and may require an abdominal ultrasound, X-ray, CT scan, or MRI before the procedure, if the stone is more than 15 mm in size.
In addition, the doctor may recommend fasting for at least 6 hours before the procedure. The doctor will provide anesthesia before the procedure to ensure there is no discomfort during the RIRS procedure. Urologists use imaging tests to identify the exact position of the stone. Then, a tool called a ureteroscope is used to examine the ureteral tract. To find the location of the stone or area of ureter blockage, the Urologist can look inside the body using a camera installed at one end of the tool. Then remove the stone completely by breaking it into small pieces with a laser beam.
The laser is called the Holmium Laser, this sophisticated tool is usually used to target stones and destroy or move them without damaging the surrounding organs, and urine removes stone fragments from the body.
What conditions require RIRS action?
Of course, at this point patients who have problems urinating usually have stones in the kidneys and urinary tract, and have consulted a urologist, or even have symptoms of pain and fever. The RIRS technique is usually the best choice for patients with stones measuring between 10mm and 14mm. When shock wave lithotripsy and ureteroscopy fail, RIRS for kidney stone removal is usually effective.
At first, the patient will definitely feel significant symptoms so that the patient feels that this requires the best treatment from a Urology Specialist. An example is feeling a strong urge to urinate (BAK) that doesn't go away, usually the patient also feels a burning sensation when urinating, then urinating in small amounts but frequently and also urine that looks cloudier than usual.
Advantages of the RIRS technique
Can be done one day care (depending on the patient's condition)
Faster recovery
Post-operative pain is minimal
Less chance of bleeding compared to other techniques
Less chance of repeat procedure compared to ESWL
Can be used for larger stones with the advent of Thulium Lasers
What happens after the RIRS action?
The total recovery period after RIRS is generally quite short, and most patients can return to work and daily activities within a day or two after surgery. Because this procedure does not involve incisions or stitches, the risk of complications is also minimal. Here are some tips that can help you recover quickly and avoid complications after RIRS:
Increase your consumption of water.
Eat foods rich in fiber.
Avoid eating foods that are too spicy or contain high amounts of animal protein for several weeks after surgery.
Don't do strenuous exercise. However, don't avoid exercise altogether.
If you experience abnormal symptoms, contact a doctor immediately.
