Ureteroscopic removal of stone : results and complications

Kim, Hyun Joo; Kim, Choung Soo; Ahn, Han Jong; Ahn, Tai Young; Kim, Kwang Hoon

Abstract

To identify clinical situations or techniques that tended to increase the incidence of either success or complications. we evaluated retrospectively the experience with rigid ureteroscopy in 85 patients from June 1989 to December 1990. The ureteral stone removal was successful in 48 of 85 patients (56%). Early complications occurred in 12 patients( 14%) : ureteral perforations in 6 patients, intramural ureteral mucosa avulsions in 2 patients, flank pain more than 2 days in 2 patients and uncomplicated urinary tract infection in 2 patients. On excretory urography performed in 60 patients 1 to 3 months after ureteroscopy mild strictures were noted at the ureteral office in 2 patients(3% ), which was relieved on upright position in one case and was improved spontaneously en followup excretory urography 3 months later in the other case. In conclusion, ureteroscopic removal of stones can be a successful and safe treatment modality of mid and lower ureter stones, especially with experience and good surgical skill.