Kidney stones are a common urological issue that can cause intense pain and discomfort. Thankfully, advances in medical technology have made their treatment more effective and less invasive. One such modern procedure is Flexible Ureteroscopy (FURS) – a minimally invasive technique to treat stones in the kidney and upper ureter.
What is Flexible Ureteroscopy (FURS)?
Flexible ureteroscopy is a non-surgical, incision-free procedure used to diagnose and treat kidney and ureteric stones. A thin, flexible tube called a ureteroscope is inserted through the natural urinary pathway—starting from the urethra, through the bladder, and up into the ureter and kidney.
Once the stone is located, a laser is used to break it into fine fragments, which either pass naturally in the urine or are removed using specialized tools. The procedure is typically done under general or spinal anesthesia.
Who Can Benefit from FURS?
FURS is particularly useful for patients with:
Kidney stones sized between 1–2 cm
Stones located in the upper ureter or kidney
Failure of other treatments such as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) or medical therapy
High-risk patients who are not suitable for more invasive procedures like Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
It is a versatile and safer option, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or bleeding disorders.
Advantages of Flexible Ureteroscopy
FURS offers several patient-friendly benefits:
No cuts or stitches – It’s performed through the natural urinary tract.
Minimal pain – As there are no incisions, the procedure is well-tolerated.
Short hospital stay – Most patients go home within 1–2 days.
Quick recovery – You can return to normal activities in 2–3 days.
High success rate – Excellent outcomes for complete stone clearance in appropriately selected cases.
What to Expect After the Procedure
While FURS is safe and effective, patients may experience a few temporary side effects, including:
A mild burning sensation during urination
Blood-tinged urine for a couple of days
Discomfort from a DJ stent, if one is placed to keep the ureter open for drainage
These symptoms are usually short-lived and resolve within a few days.
Recovery and Aftercare
Post-procedure recovery is usually smooth. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of water helps flush out stone fragments.
Resume daily activities – Most people can get back to work or normal life within 2–3 days.
Follow-up is essential – If a DJ stent (a temporary tube inside the ureter) is placed, it will typically need to be removed after 1–2 weeks.
Your urologist will guide you on when to return for follow-up based on your recovery and stone clearance.
When to Consult a Urologist
If you are experiencing symptoms like:
Sudden and severe flank or abdominal pain
Blood in urine
Frequent urinary tract infections
Difficulty passing urine
…it’s time to consult a urologist. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent complications and offer you relief from pain.
Looking for Advanced Kidney Stone Treatment in Pune?
At our clinic in Baner, Pune, Dr. S K Palash, Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, offers state-of-the-art treatments including Flexible Ureteroscopy, tailored to each patient's needs. With a patient-first approach, we aim for safe, effective, and minimally invasive management of kidney and ureteric stones.
Disclaimer: The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. The information is provided solely for educational purpose and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice.
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