WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is a ureteroscopy? A ureteroscopy is a procedure to examine in the inside of your urinary tract, which includes your urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. A ureteroscope is a small, thin tube with a light and camera on the end. Ureteroscopy can help your healthcare provider diagnose and treat problems in your urinary tract, such as kidney stones. How do I prepare for a ureteroscopy? Arrange for a ride home after your procedure. You will not be allowed to drive yourself home. Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for your procedure. He may tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your surgery. He will tell you what medicines to take or not take on the day of your surgery. You may need blood and urine tests before your procedure. You will receive medicine to keep you asleep or to numb an area of your body during your procedure. Tell healthcare providers if you or anyone in your family has had a problem with anesthesia in the past. What will happen during a ureteroscopy? Your healthcare provider will place the ureteroscope into your urethra. He will pass it through your bladder and into your ureters and kidneys. Your healthcare provider may place tools through the scope that will help him remove tissue or stones. The tools may also help him place stents or sheaths to help keep your ureters open. What are the risks of ureteroscopy? You may bleed more than expected or get an infection. One of your ureters may be injured. You may have a blockage in one of your ureters. You may need another procedure or surgery. |