RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) is an advanced, minimally invasive procedure used to treat kidney stones that are difficult to remove through medication or smaller endoscopic techniques. It is especially effective for stones located deep inside the kidney or in areas that are hard to reach with traditional methods. RIRS does not require any cuts or incisions on the body, making it a preferred choice for many patients who want a safe, fast, and comfortable recovery.
During RIRS, a flexible ureteroscope is passed through the natural urinary passage—the urethra, bladder, and ureter—to reach the kidney. A tiny laser fibre is then used to break the stone into fine dust-like particles, which are either removed or allowed to pass naturally. Because the entire procedure is performed through the urine passage, patients experience less pain, minimal bleeding, and significantly reduced recovery time.
RIRS is suitable for patients with stones up to 1.5–2 cm in size, stones located in the lower calyx, recurrent stones, or those who cannot undergo more invasive surgeries due to medical conditions. It is also a great option for children and elderly patients because it avoids external wounds. After the procedure, doctors may place a temporary DJ stent to help urine flow smoothly and reduce swelling.
Most patients can return home within 24 hours and resume normal activities shortly after. The success rate of RIRS is very high, especially when performed by experienced urologists using advanced laser and imaging technology. Complications are rare but may include mild discomfort, urinary burning, or temporary blood in urine, all of which resolve on their own.
Overall, RIRS is a modern, safe, and highly effective option for kidney stone removal. It offers precise stone clearance with minimal trauma and the benefit of quick recovery. For many patients, it is the ideal solution when medication is not enough and when they want to avoid larger surgeries.
