Nephroscopy as the name suggests is a procedure which is used to study the kidneys with the help of a scope (a tube-like instrument which is fitted with a camera at the end) and also aid in removal of kidney stones. The Nephroscopy procedure could be done either to just examine the deep-seated kidney stones or sometimes even to remove them.
When is a nephroscopy procedure advised ?
A primary indication of a Nephroscopy procedure is to remove kidney stones which are small or the ones which are difficult to remove with ESWL (extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy) procedure. Occasionally a Nephroscopy procedure can also be used in removing small kidney tumors.
What are the types of nephroscopy procedures ?
Nephroscopy is mainly performed by two techniques.
- Flexible nephroscopy procedure
- Percutaneous nephroscopy procedure
The flexible nephroscopy uses a flexible nephroscope to locate and remove the kidney stones whereas a percutaneous nephroscopy is a more elaborate procedure where the patient is admitted in the healthcare facility, where a needle is inserted in the lower back region to gain access to the kidneys and then a contrast media is injected for further examination.
How do you prepare for a nephroscopy procedure ?
A nephroscopy procedure is advised by a urologist or urosurgeon after a detailed clinical examination, analysis of signs and symptoms and other required investigations like blood tests and ultrasonography. The procedure is done under the influence of anesthesia and hence it is important that your overall health should be reviewed before administration of anesthesia. The treating consultant will also review your medical history and medication history in detail.
It is important to inform your doctor if you could be pregnant as contrast media and X-rays could be used during the nephroscopy procedure.
You will be asked to abstain from eating or drinking anything at-least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
What happens during a nephroscopy procedure ?
During a flexible nephroscopy procedure, a nephroscope is inserted into the urethra after initiation of anesthesia and a application of a lubricant. This nephroscope is advanced till the calyses and the pelvis of the kidney. Once the stones or growth is located, they are removed with the help of biopsy forceps or Lasers. Once the procedure is completed a catheter is put in place which is removed after 2-3 days.
During a percutaneous nephroscopy procedure, the patient is made to lie on his/her abdomen and anesthesia is administered. A catheter is placed in in the urethra and advanced till the kidney, then a contrast media is injected to visualize the kidneys. A needle is passed to the kidneys from the lower back region, then a nephroscope is inserted along with other instruments like biopsy forceps, forceps for removal of stones or Lasers. Once the procedure is completed, the nephroscope is removed but the catheter is still left in for a few days. After this you will be shifted to the recovery room and will be monitored for a few hours. You might be even asked to stay in the hospital for a few days. If you are allowed to go home, you will be trained how to maintain the wound and when to see the doctor for a follow up.
What are the risks and complications of nephroscopy procedure ?
Flexible Nephroscopy is a rather safe procedure and one can occasionally experience an increase urge for urination or urinary infection. Percutaneous Nephroscopy is a rather elaborate procedure which carry increased risks of infection, clotting and bleeding. One has to carefully monitor the catheter which is placed for a few days. If one experiences symptoms of fever, burning sensation in urine or blood in urine, it is important to seek urgent medical help.
How to find urologists for nephroscopy procedure ?
Now you can find urologists for nephroscopy procedure from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions and information from multiple urologists, get cost estimates for nephroscopy procedure from different hospitals, compare things and then choose an urologist for nephroscopy procedure.
Find and choose an urologist for nephroscopy procedure on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
