What is RIRS? Is It a Reliable Kidney Stone Laser Surgery?

Kidney stones develop due to the presence of hard minerals and salt crystals in the kidney. Depending upon the size and the location of the kidney stone, the doctor prescribes a treatment ranging from non-surgical to usage of sound waves or laser therapy to remove the stones. Out of all the treatments available for kidney stones, Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery RIRS guarantees to be a reliable and advanced kidney stone laser surgery. If you have kidney stones and your doctor prescribes an RIRS, you must understand the procedure properly to help you take informed decisions about your well-being.

Now, let us understand in simple words, what is laser surgery for kidney stones? When is it required? What size of stone requires surgery? How is the surgery performed? What are the tips for post-surgery? etc. 

Heretofore, if reading about surgeries is not a layman’s cup of tea or rather not a layman’s business in your eyes, then read our blog to understand why health literacy is important when it comes to taking care of yourself and your loved ones.

Let’s begin.

What is RIRS?

As the name suggests, RIRS – Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery, is a procedure involving the removal of kidney stones by entering the kidney from the ureter, in a reverse i.e., retrograde manner. It involves the use of a fibre-optic endoscope for visual directions and a Holmium laser to break down the stones into small fragments. RIRS is one of the most advanced, and effective kidney stone surgery ensuring the least complications.

When is RIRS required?

The doctor will prescribe you a Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery when the renal stones smaller than 2 cm, or in cases with prior unsuccessful shock wave lithotripsy (SWL).

What are the preoperative tests or tips to do before RIRS?

Before the surgery, the doctor might ask you to do an abdomen ultrasound and X-ray or CT scan or MRI in case of stones > 15 mm along with urine analysis and culture. Furthermore, the doctor may advise you to fast for at least 6 hours before the surgery. 

Which anaesthesia is given for this surgery?

This surgery involves the use of general or spinal anaesthesia. 

What precautions to take after the surgery?

Even though the surgery demands one-day procedure, the kidney stone surgery recovery time might take as long as 7 to 8 days.

These are some important kidney stone surgery aftercare tips to help you post the procedure:

• After the surgery, the doctor may place a urine catheter in the urethra to reduce pain and problem while urinating; the catheter remains placed for a day or longer as per the doctor.
• Make sure you maintain a healthy diet after the surgery. It should involve a lot of fiber-rich foods. Avoid eating foods responsible for causing constipation and resulting in too much strain during bowel movement. Your doctor might prescribe a mild laxative for a few days.
• Most importantly, drink loads of water around 8-10 liters per day. A large water intake will help to keep your urine flowing freely. 
• Cut alcohol intake and consumption of caffeinated beverages. 
• Avoid strenuous activities and lifting heavyweight for at least a month after the surgery. 

Conclusion

All in all, this is how the procedure of RIRS works. This is the most reliable and non-invasive procedure for kidney stone removal. It guarantees faster recovery, less pain and minimum blood loss compared to the conventional methods. If you develop kidney stones and your doctor prescribes RIRS, understand your diagnosis well, stay well-informed to help you take the faster track to recovery.

Medfin offers the best treatment for kidney stone removal. If you are diagnosed with kidney stones and not sure about the procedure we are here to help. We offer minimally invasive day-care surgeries at affordable costs by the best surgeons across the country. Our team will handle your surgical journey right from the diagnosis to post-surgery care along with your insurance claim and paperwork. 

To consult a Medfin doctor near you or to know more about us, please call us on 7026200200. You can also Whatsapp us on 7406557599 (click here to initiate a WhatsApp chat).

Useful links :

Kidney Stones: Which treatment might suit you?

Kidney Stones: A detailed understanding

Types of Kidney Stones