Ureteroscopy (URS) for ureteric calculi

Distal ureteral calculi (< 5 mm) usually pass the ureter spontaneously. Ureteroscopic lithotripsy of distal ureteral calculi shows high stone-free rates with a low complication rate (4%) and is equal to extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), while ESWL is the primary choice for proximal ureteric stones. Flexible endoscopes are more difficult to handle and should be used only under fluoroscopic control. They are generally used in combination with the holmium:YAG laser and the flexible Lithoclast in the proximal ureter or the renal collecting system. Overall the complication rate of URS is 9-11% with avulsion of the ureteric urothelium being the most common complication. Ureteral Perforation, stricture (< 1%), impaction of the instrument in the ureter with consequent ureteral laceration, extravasation of stones, and bleeding in the urogenital tract are complications of URS but are minimal in the hands of a well-trained and skilled surgeon.