Forceps extraction of ureteral stones

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Traditional open surgical intervention for ureteral stones is often invasive.
• Endoscopic stone extraction techniques like basket extraction and ureteroscopy are common but not always successful.

Observation:

• A novel technique utilizing flexible cup biopsy forceps through a Teflon sheath was employed for ureteral stone extraction.
• This method was specifically applied when standard endoscopic manipulations proved unsuccessful.

Findings:

• Four ureteral stones were successfully extracted using this technique.
• Two stones were removed via the transurethral route, and two via a percutaneous nephrostomy tract.
• The procedure demonstrated minimal patient morbidity.

Implications:

• This technique provides an effective alternative for difficult ureteral stone removal.
• It reduces the need for invasive open surgery.
• Patients experience a swift return to normal activities post-procedure.