Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy is a procedure to remove stones from the ureter. The ureter is a tube between the kidney and the bladder. Urine passes down to the bladder through this tube.
Laparoscopic procedures use small incisions and specialized tools. This helps to avoid large incisions that are used during open surgery.
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Ureterolithotomy is used to remove stones in a ureter that:
Problems from the test are rare. However, all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
Smoking may increase your risk of complications.
Talk to your doctor about these risks before the procedure.
General anesthesia will be used. You will be asleep through the procedure.
A few small incisions will be made in your abdomen. Specialized tools will be inserted through the incisions. The tools will be used to make an incision in the side of the ureter. The stone will be removed through this incision. A stent may be placed in the ureter. This will support the ureter while it heals. The incision in the ureter will be closed with stitches. A drain will be put in place. It will help fluids drain from the area while you heal. When the tools are removed, the incisions in the abdomen will be closed with stitches. Bandages may be placed over the incisions.
The stone may be sent to a laboratory for testing after surgery.
After the operation, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation.
About 60 minutes
Anesthesia prevents pain during surgery. As you recover, you may have some pain. Your doctor will give you pain medication.
The usual length of your hospital stay is 2 to 4 days. If you have any problems, you may need to stay longer.
Certain physical activities will be limited in the first few weeks such as heavy lifting or sexual activity.
Call your doctor if any of these occur:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Urology Care Foundation
Canadian Urological Association
Kidney stones. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/kidney-stones. Accessed January 29, 2021.
Patient information: Open removal of stone from ureter. Addenbrooke’s Hospital NHS website. Available at: http://www.camurology.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/ureterolithotomy-44.pdf. Accessed January 29, 2021.
Ureterolithotomy (open) consent form. Queensland Government website. Available at: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0024/145824/urology_21.pdf. Accessed January 29, 2021.
Last reviewed March 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrienne Carmack, MD Last Updated: 1/29/2021