RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) is typically needed when a patient has a large kidney stone that cannot be effectively treated with other methods, such as shock wave lithotripsy or ureterorenoscopy.
Additionally, RIRS may be used in cases where a patient has a small kidney stone that is located in a difficult-to-reach area of the kidney, or in patients who are unable to undergo general anaesthesia. It may also be considered in patients who have had previously failed ureterorenoscopy.
The procedure is typically recommended after a detailed assessment of the patient’s medical history, physical examination and imaging studies. A urologist is the one who performs this surgery.