[Transurethral ureteroscopic removal of ureteral calculi]

Rigid ureteroscopy was used for transurethral removal of ureteral stones. Calculi were extracted under direct vision using flexible grasping forceps or a stone basket. If the size of the stone precluded the use of these techniques, we disintegrated the stone using an electro-hydraulic lithotriptor (EHL) or ultrasonic lithotriptor (USL). Between January, 1985 and October, 1985, 35 ureteroscopic procedures were performed for removal of ureteral stones. In 27 cases (77%) the stone was removed successfully. All stones could be removed in mid and lower ureter. However, in upper ureter, the success rate was only 50%. In 8 instances, ureteroscopy failed to remove the ureteral calculus and 6 underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy, 2 open surgery. Of the ureteral stones, 12 were removed with grasping forceps or a basket manipulation. EHL and USL were used successfully to remove calculi in 15 cases. To make smooth passage of the ureteroscope, a 6F UPJ occlusion balloon catheter was introduced into the ureter and the balloon was inflated in the intramural ureter for 24 hours preoperatively. We have found this to be a useful procedure for smooth passage of the ureteroscope. Most common complication of ureteroscopic stone removal was fever (29%). In 1 case, the ureter was penetrated by the scope. The patient was treated with an indwelling ureteral catheter for 2 weeks. After the catheter was removed, an excretory urogram demonstrated normal ureter without extravasation or obstruction. We conclude that ureteroscopic stone removal can be done safely with careful passage of the scope and careful manipulation of calculi.