Ureteroscopic stone removal

Lee, Byung Jin; Kim, Young Gon; Park, Young Kyung

Abstract

Rigid ureteroscopy is now established technique for the management of ureteral stones. We evaluated the experiences of rigid ureteroscopy retrospectively at our institutions from October 1990 to June 1991, 30 ureteroscopies were performed for the removal of ureteral stones and one ureteroscopy for the removal of Kock pouch stones. In 23 cases(74.2%), the stones were removed successfully. The likelihood of failure was greater for stones larger than 10mm and above the lower ureter. Among the reasons for failure to remove stones. the failure to insert the ureteroscope into the ureteral orifice was the most common. Complications were developed in 11 cases but managed conservatively in all cases. We agree that ureteroscopic removal of stone is the treatment of choice for lower ureteral stone of smaller than 10mm in size with proven efficacy and safety.