Kidney stones are extremely painful and often affect daily life. Many people try to make home remedies or delay treatment because they fear surgery. But today, advanced techniques like RIRS surgery make kidney stone removal much safer, simpler, and faster. If you want a minimally invasive approach with quick recovery, Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is one of the best options. In this blog, we will answer the most common questions patients have about retrograde intrarenal surgery, its benefits, safety, and recovery. The goal is to help you understand the procedure in easy language so you can make an informed decision.
Kidney Specialist in Ahmedabad, Dr Ravi Bhadania, believes that awareness plays a major role in reducing fear and confusion about kidney stone treatments. So, let’s explore everything step-by-step.
What is the RIRS Surgery Procedure and How Does It Work?
The full form of RIRS is Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery. It is a modern, minimally invasive kidney stone surgery that uses a thin, flexible scope to reach the kidney and remove stones without any cuts on the body.
Here’s how the procedure works in simple terms:
- A very thin tube-like instrument called a flexible ureteroscope is inserted through the natural urinary passage.
- It moves upward through the urethra → bladder → ureter → kidney.
- Once it reaches the stone, a laser (usually a Holmium laser) breaks the stone into very tiny pieces.
- These small fragments either come out naturally through urine or are removed using a small basket tool.
There are no incisions, stitches, or visible scars. This makes RIRS one of the preferred options for patients who want a quick and smooth recovery.
When is RIRS recommended?
Doctors often suggest RIRS for:
- Stones located deep inside the kidney
- Stones that are hard or large
- Stones that cannot pass naturally
- Patients who have failed other treatments like ESWL (shockwave therapy)
- Patients who want a completely minimally invasive option
- People with bleeding disorders or medical conditions where open surgery is risky
The best part of this minimally invasive kidney stone surgery is that it is safe, highly effective, and suitable for many patients who cannot undergo major procedures.
Why Do Doctors Prefer Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery Over Traditional Kidney Stone Treatments?
Many people compare RIRS with other kidney stone treatments like PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy) or ESWL. To understand why doctors often recommend RIRS, let’s look at the advantages simply.
1. No cuts on the body
Most surgeries require at least a small incision. But RIRS is performed completely through the urinary passage, which means:
- No cuts
- No stitches
- No scars
This reduces the risk of bleeding and infection.
2. Quick recovery
Since the surgery causes almost no tissue damage, patients recover quickly. Most people can return home within 24 hours and resume routine work shortly after.
3. Highly accurate and effective
The flexible ureteroscope gives a clear, close view of the stone. This allows the doctor to:
- Target stones precisely
- Break all pieces into fine dust
- Ensure no large fragments remain
This reduces the chances of stone recurrence.
4. Suitable for complex stones
Some stones are too deep, too small, or too large for other treatments. RIRS can reach all corners of the kidney, making it ideal for:
- Lower pole stones
- Multiple stones
- Hard stones like calcium oxalate monohydrate
5. Minimal pain
Since there are no cuts, the pain after surgery is very mild compared to traditional methods. Most patients only feel slight discomfort due to the temporary stent.
6. Less hospital stay
In most cases:
- Admission: Same day
- Surgery: Within a few hours
- Discharge: Next day
This makes it practical for working professionals and elderly patients.
Dr Ravi Bhadania often explains to his patients that RIRS is not just a surgery, it is an advanced, patient-friendly approach that reduces stress and speeds up healing.
What Should You Expect Before, During, and After the RIRS Surgery Procedure?
Many patients feel worried because they do not know what happens before and after surgery. Here is a simple breakdown to help you understand the complete journey.
Before the procedure
Your doctor will guide you through:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Ultrasound or CT scan
- Basic medical evaluation
You may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours before surgery.
During the procedure
The surgery happens under general anaesthesia, so you will be asleep and feel no pain.
Step-by-step process:
- The doctor passes a ureteroscope through the natural urinary tract.
- The scope reaches the kidney.
- Laser breaks the stone into dust.
- The doctor removes fragments or allows them to pass naturally.
- A thin stent may be placed to maintain urine flow.
The procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes, depending on the size and number of stones.
After the procedure
Recovery is usually smooth.
You may experience:
- Mild burning sensation while urinating
- Slight blood in urine for a day or two
- Discomfort due to the stent
These are normal and settle quickly.
You may be advised to:
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Take prescribed medicines
- Come back for stent removal after 7–14 days
Most people go back to normal activities within 2–3 days.
Is RIRS Safe and Who Is the Right Candidate for This Minimally Invasive Kidney Stone Surgery?
RIRS is considered one of the safest kidney stone procedures. Complications are rare and mostly minor.
Who is eligible?
You are likely a good candidate if:
- You have stones between 5 mm to 20 mm
- Your stones cannot be treated with ESWL
- You want a no-cut, no-scar procedure
- You want a quick recovery
- You have other medical issues that make major surgery risky
Who may not be eligible?
RIRS may not be suitable if:
- There is an active urinary infection
- The ureter is extremely narrow
- There are blood-clotting issues that need correction
A detailed evaluation is important. Dr Ravi Bhadania discusses all options with patients, so they feel confident and well-informed before making a decision.
What are the Key Benefits of Choosing RIRS for Kidney Stone Removal?
To summarise, here are the main advantages of RIRS:
- Completely minimally invasive
- No external cuts
- Less pain
- Fewer complications
- Quick recovery
- High success rate
- Suitable for many types of stones
- Safe for older adults, diabetics, and people with medical conditions
- Short hospital stays
Patients who want a smooth experience often prefer RIRS over traditional surgeries.
Conclusion
The RIRS surgery procedure is a breakthrough in kidney stone treatment. It offers a painless, comfortable, and highly effective way to remove stones without cuts or scars. If you have been struggling with kidney stones, Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery may be the right solution. With modern technology and experienced specialists, this procedure ensures faster recovery and long-term relief.
Always consult an expert who understands your condition and guides you with care. A specialist like Dr Ravi Bhadania can help you choose the safest and most effective treatment based on your stone size, location, and health needs.
If you want a minimally invasive kidney stone surgery with maximum comfort and quick healing, RIRS is one of the best options available today.
