Ureteroscopy and Laser Newcastle
A keyhole treatment in which a fine telescope is passed through the natural urinary tract to reach a stone directly. The stone is then broken up with a laser and removed, with no external incision.
What is ureteroscopy?
Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive treatment for stones in the ureter or kidney.
A very fine telescope, known as a ureteroscope, is passed through the urethra and bladder and up into the ureter to reach the stone. Because the natural urinary passage is used, there is no cut on the outside of the body.
Once the stone is located, a laser fibre is used to break it into very small fragments. These fragments are either removed during the procedure or left to pass naturally.
Ureteroscopy is particularly effective for stones in the ureter and for many stones within the kidney. It is often used when shockwave lithotripsy is not suitable.
The procedure is performed under anaesthetic. A temporary ureteric stent, which is a thin internal tube, is often placed afterwards to help the ureter heal and drain properly. This is removed after a short period.
Your consultant will confirm whether ureteroscopy and laser treatment in Newcastle is the most appropriate option for your stone.
Reach, fragment, remove
Ureteroscopy treats the stone directly in three steps.
Reaches the stone
A fine scope is passed through the natural urinary tract to the site of the stone without any external incision.
Laser fragmentation
A laser fibre breaks the stone into tiny pieces.
Stent for healing
A temporary internal stent is often placed to support drainage and healing before being removed at a follow-up appointment.
Who ureteroscopy and laser may suit
This treatment may be appropriate for people who:
- Have a stone in the ureter
- Have certain stones within the kidney
- Have stones not suitable for shockwave therapy
- Require direct and definitive stone treatment
- Have had suitability confirmed on imaging
Assessment ensures the right approach is chosen for your stone’s size, position and composition.
What to expect
- Assessment
Imaging confirms the size and position of the stone and determines whether ureteroscopy is suitable. - The procedure
Under anaesthetic, the scope is passed to the stone and the laser fragments it. Pieces are removed where possible. - Recovery and stent
A temporary stent is often placed. Some bladder irritation or urinary frequency may occur while it is in place. Your consultant arranges removal and follow-up.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for ureteroscopy in Newcastle?
No external incision
The procedure is performed entirely through the natural urinary tract.
Highly effective
Particularly effective for ureteric stones and many kidney stones.
Versatile treatment
Suitable for stones not amenable to shockwave therapy.
Consultant-led care
Assessment, surgery and follow-up are delivered by an experienced urologist.
From imaging to stone clearance
Evaluation confirms that ureteroscopy is the most appropriate treatment for your specific stone.
Not every stone requires this approach. Some may pass naturally or be better suited to shockwave therapy or PCNL.
Where indicated, ureteroscopy offers a highly effective and definitive method of stone removal.
Frequently asked questions
Will I have an incision?
No. Ureteroscopy uses the natural urinary passage and does not require an external cut.
Why might I need a stent?
A temporary stent helps the ureter drain and heal after treatment. It is removed after a short period.
How does it compare with shockwave therapy?
Ureteroscopy treats the stone directly and is often more suitable for certain stone types and positions. Shockwave therapy is less invasive but not suitable for all stones.
What is recovery like?
Recovery is usually quick. Some urinary symptoms are common while a stent is in place and settle after removal.
Do I need a referral?
No. Self-referral is welcome.
Book your urology consultation today
Consultations are available to book online for patients with or without a GP referral. Our private specialists provide world-class care in a discrete environment.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception01189207055
- Location
The Beverley Hospital, The Edge, Fifth Ave, Team Valley, Gateshead NE11 0XA
