Ureteroscopy

Ureteroscopy

How a ureteroscope is used to remove a kidney stone

During ureteroscopy, the doctor passes a thin viewing instrument (ureteroscope) through your urethra and bladder into your ureter. The doctor moves the scope through your ureter until it reaches the location of the kidney stone. No cuts are made in the body.

Your doctor can take out the kidney stone using a small "basket" that comes out of the end of the ureteroscope. Small stones can be removed all in one piece. Larger stones may need to be broken up before the doctor can remove them.

Current as of: March 1, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Tushar J. Vachharajani MD, FASN, FACP - Nephrology