Ureterorenoscopy in the management of renal and ureteric calculi

A total of 172 ureterorenoscopies were performed in 112 patients with 131 ureteric and renal calculi. The success rates for retrieval were 65, 59 and 79% in the upper, middle and lower third of the ureter, respectively. 32% of renal calculi were removed by ureterorenoscopy. By combined endourological techniques 89% of all stones were removed. Few complications occurred, and no late sequelae were recorded. It is concluded that ureterorenoscopic stone retrieval is an efficient and safe procedure, especially for lower ureteric stones. In the hand of a trained endourologist it might be attempted for upper ureteric calculi as well, and for certain renal stones in selected patients.