All Surgeries·Urology
UrologyKidney

Ureteroscopy

Advanced, minimally invasive treatment for kidney and ureteral stones.

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

About This Disease

Learn about the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis.

Learn more

Non-Surgical Treatment

Explore conservative treatment options before surgery.

Kidney Stones Treatment

Surgery Type

Select to compare approaches

Implant Type

Tap (?) for details

What happens in this surgery?

  • A thin, flexible ureteroscope is inserted through the natural urinary opening (urethra) and bladder, then advanced into the ureter and kidney.
  • The urologist uses the scope to directly visualize the kidney stone(s) without any external incisions.
  • A laser fiber is passed through the ureteroscope to break the stone into tiny fragments (laser lithotripsy).
  • Smaller fragments are either removed with a basket or left to pass naturally, often facilitated by a temporary ureteral stent.

Ready to take the next step?

Connect with a specialist to see if Ureteroscopy is right for you.

Post Surgery Recovery

What to expect after your procedure

After ureteroscopy, you will typically go home the same day. You may experience some discomfort, including mild pain in your back or side, frequent urination, and blood in your urine for a few days. If a ureteral stent was placed, you might feel more significant discomfort, bladder spasms, or a persistent urge to urinate. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage any post-operative pain. It is crucial to drink plenty of fluids to help flush your system and prevent infection. You should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise for at least a week, or as advised by your surgeon. Most patients can return to light activities within 24-48 hours and resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks. If a stent was placed, it will typically be removed in a follow-up procedure, usually within 1-2 weeks, which is a quick outpatient visit. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for your recovery, including when to resume medications and when to schedule follow-up appointments. It's important to monitor for signs of complications such as fever, severe pain, or persistent heavy bleeding, and contact your medical team immediately if these occur. Long-term prevention strategies, such as dietary changes and increased fluid intake, will also be discussed to reduce the risk of future stone formation.

Hospital Stay

1–7 days

Varies by procedure

Initial Rest

1–2 weeks

Light activity only

Follow-up Visit

2–4 weeks

Wound check & review

Full Recovery

6–12 weeks

Back to normal activity

Recovery & Wellness Tips

  • Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and allergies.
  • You may need to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, several days before the procedure.
  • Follow fasting instructions (typically no food or drink for 6-8 hours) before surgery.
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you will be under anesthesia.
  • Complete any pre-operative tests, such as blood work or urine analysis, as requested by your doctor.