Endourology - Kidney stone operation (PCNL, RIRS) Ureteric and Bladder Stone operation (URSL, Laser operation) Prostate operation (TURP, Laser prostate operation)
Kidney stone operation (PCNL, RIRS)
Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. When they become too large to pass naturally, surgical intervention may be necessary. Two common surgical procedures for treating kidney stones are Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS).
1. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL):
Procedure: PCNL involves making a small incision in the patient's back and inserting a nephroscope (a small tube with a camera and tools) directly into the kidney to remove the stone. The stone is either removed whole or broken into smaller pieces using an ultrasonic probe or laser and then extracted.
Indications: PCNL is typically used for large stones (greater than 2 cm), complex or multiple stones, or stones that are hard to reach using other methods.
Recovery: Recovery time may vary, but patients typically stay in the hospital for 1-2 days. Full recovery usually takes about 1-2 weeks.
2. Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS):
Procedure: RIRS is a minimally invasive procedure where a flexible ureteroscope (a thin tube with a camera and laser) is passed through the urethra and bladder up to the kidney. The stone is then visualized and fragmented using a laser. The fragments can either be removed or left to pass naturally.
Indications: RIRS is generally preferred for smaller stones (less than 2 cm), stones located in hard-to-reach areas of the kidney, or when other methods have failed.
Recovery: Recovery is quicker than PCNL, with most patients able to go home the same day or the next. Full recovery typically takes a few days to a week.
Both PCNL and RIRS are effective treatments for kidney stones, and the choice between them depends on the size, location, and composition of the stone, as well as the patient's overall health and anatomy. It's essential to discuss with a urologist to determine the most suitable treatment option.
Ureteric and Bladder Stone operation (URSL, Laser operation)
Ureteric and bladder stones can cause significant discomfort and may require surgical intervention if they are too large to pass naturally or cause other complications. Two common procedures for treating ureteric and bladder stones are Ureteroscopy and Laser Lithotripsy (URSL) and Laser Cystolitholapaxy.
1. Ureteroscopy and Laser Lithotripsy (URSL):
Procedure: URSL is a minimally invasive procedure where a ureteroscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera and laser) is passed through the urethra, bladder, and up into the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder). Once the stone is located, it is fragmented using a laser. The small fragments can either pass naturally or be removed with special tools.
Indications: URSL is typically used for stones located in the ureter, especially those that are too large to pass on their own (usually larger than 5-6 mm).
Recovery: Recovery is usually quick, with most patients being able to go home the same day or the next day. Full recovery typically takes a few days to a week.
2. Laser Cystolitholapaxy (Bladder Stone Laser Operation):
Procedure: Laser cystolitholapaxy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat bladder stones. A cystoscope (a thin tube with a camera and laser) is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. The laser is then used to break the stones into smaller pieces, which are then flushed out of the bladder or removed with special instruments.
Indications: This procedure is used for stones located in the bladder, particularly when they are too large to pass naturally or are causing symptoms such as pain, urinary tract infections, or difficulty urinating.
Recovery: Patients can usually go home the same day or the next day. Recovery time is typically short, with most people resuming normal activities within a few days.
Both URSL and laser cystolitholapaxy are effective, minimally invasive options for treating ureteric and bladder stones, with quick recovery times and relatively low risk of complications. The choice of procedure depends on the stone's location, size, and the patient's overall health. Consulting with a urologist will help determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Prostate operation (TURP, Laser prostate operation)
Prostate surgeries are common procedures used to treat conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), where the prostate gland is enlarged and causes urinary issues. Two of the most common surgical options are Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) and Laser Prostate Surgery.
1. Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP):
Procedure: TURP is a minimally invasive surgery where a resectoscope (a thin tube with a camera and a cutting device) is inserted through the urethra. The surgeon removes parts of the enlarged prostate that are obstructing urine flow by cutting and cauterizing the tissue.
Indications: TURP is commonly used for moderate to severe cases of BPH, especially when medication is ineffective.
Recovery: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days. A catheter is usually left in place for 1-2 days post-surgery to help with urination. Full recovery typically takes 4-6 weeks.
2. Laser Prostate Surgery:
Procedure: Laser prostate surgery, such as Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) or GreenLight laser therapy, uses a laser to remove or vaporize excess prostate tissue. The laser energy is delivered through a fiber passed through a cystoscope inserted into the urethra.
Indications: Laser surgery is often used for patients with large prostates, those on blood thinners, or when a quicker recovery is desired.
Recovery: Recovery is typically faster than with TURP, with many patients going home the same day or the next day. A catheter may be needed for a short time post-surgery. Full recovery is usually within 1-2 weeks.