Kidney stones, or urolithiasis, are solid masses that form in the urinary tract, typically originating in the kidneys. These stones may migrate through the renal pelvis, ureter, bladder, or urethra, obstructing urine flow and causing severe flank pain, hematuria, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
A state-of-the-art procedure, suction-based flexible ureteroscopy (using a Flexible and Navigable Access Sheath, FANS), is transforming kidney stone management. This minimally invasive technique involves inserting a slender endoscope through the urethra, coupled with a specialized suction device to efficiently remove stones. Unlike traditional methods that fragment stones and risk leaving residual debris, this approach simultaneously pulverizes and aspirates fragments, significantly reducing complications from retained stones. The procedure is faster, less painful, and allows most patients to be discharged the same day.
Case Studies Highlight Effectiveness
Patient A presented with a 1.8 cm ureteral stone causing intense pain. Standard extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy was unsuitable due to the stone’s size. Suction-based ureteroscopy cleared the stone in a single session, leaving no fragments and enabling a swift recovery.
Patient B had multiple stones in the kidney and ureter, a condition often requiring multiple interventions. Suction-based ureteroscopy removed all stones in one procedure, with the suction mechanism capturing even minute fragments, thus lowering recurrence risk.
Patient C faced a particularly hard stone resistant to conventional laser lithotripsy after several unsuccessful attempts. Suction-based ureteroscopy, integrating high-powered laser fragmentation with immediate aspiration, effectively eliminated the stone, allowing same-day discharge.
Advantages Over Traditional Methods
Suction-based ureteroscopy excels by fragmenting and extracting stones in real time, achieving superior clearance rates. It shortens procedure time, reduces recurrence by minimizing residual fragments, and lowers the risk of ureteral injury, decreasing complication rates. This method is particularly effective for patients with prior treatment failures or those needing rapid stone clearance.
Personalized Treatment is Critical
The choice of kidney stone treatment hinges on stone size, location, and composition. Suction-based ureteroscopy offers a highly effective option. Analysis of thousands of cases underscores the importance of tailored treatment plans for optimal outcomes. Sudden flank pain or blood in the urine should not be dismissed as muscle strain. Prompt medical evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr