Ureteroscopy And Laser Lithotripsy Procedure In Singapore
Ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat ureteral stones by passing a thin scope through the urethra and bladder into the ureter to locate the stone. A laser is then used to break the stone into small fragments.
Medically reviewed by Dr Ho Siew Hong
Senior Consultant Urologist
MBBS (NUS), FRCS (Edinburgh, Glasgow), FAMS (Urology), Singapore Board Certified Urologist
Ureteroscopy (URS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat ureteral stones. A thin ureteroscope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter, allowing the surgeon to see and treat the stone. Using Holmium laser lithotripsy, the stone is precisely fragmented so the pieces can pass naturally or be removed. This technique avoids open surgery, offering effective stone clearance with minimal discomfort and quick recovery.
- Ureteric stones causing pain, obstruction or bleeding
- Stones that do not pass naturally after medical treatment
- Stones too large or too hard for spontaneous passage
- Stones associated with infection or impaired kidney function
- Minimally invasive — no surgical incision
- High success rate for complete stone clearance
- Quick recovery and minimal pain
- Can treat stones at any level of the ureter
- Suitable for patients not responding to other treatments
- Usually performed under light general anesthesia.
- A small telescope (ureteroscope) is gently passed through the urinary passage to reach the stone.
- The stone is visualised directly.
- A Holmium laser is used to fragment the stone into fine pieces.
- The fragments are either washed out or removed using tiny baskets.
- In some cases, a temporary ureteric stent (a thin plastic tube) is placed to ensure smooth urine drainage and help the ureter heal.
- Most patients can return home the same day.
- Most patients can go home the same day.
- Mild burning during urination and a small amount of blood in the urine are common for a few days.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out any remaining stone fragments.
- Avoid strenuous activity for about 1 week.
- If a stent is placed, it may cause mild urinary frequency or discomfort until removal (usually within 1–2 weeks).
- Pain and infection are rare but manageable with medication.
- Mild burning or discomfort on urination
- Blood in the urine (temporary)
- Infection of the urinary tract
- Ureteric injury or narrowing (rare)
- Stent-related discomfort (if a stent is placed)
Get Personalised Kidney Stone Treatment
Every kidney stone is different. Dr Ho Siew Hong provides individualised evaluation and minimally invasive solutions to clear kidney stones effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, so you will not feel pain. Some mild discomfort may occur after the procedure but usually settles within a few days.
A temporary stent may be placed to help urine flow and reduce swelling. It is removed after 1–2 weeks in a simple clinic procedure.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. You may need to avoid strenuous exercise for about a week.
Yes, stones can recur. Dr. Ho provides stone analysis and preventive advice to reduce the risk of recurrence through dietary and lifestyle modifications.
Yes, it is suitable for most patients, including those who are not ideal candidates for shockwave treatment or open surgery.
Why consult Dr Ho Siew Hong @
