Ureteroscopy & Retrograde Pyelogram

What is it?

 

Ureteroscopy is a procedure where a fine telescope (ureteroscope) is passed through the urethra and bladder and up the ureter towards the kidney.  Ureteroscopy is used to treat and view the ureter, which is the narrow part which joins the kidney to the bladder.

 

Urinary Tract

 

Why is it done?

 

Ureteroscopy and retrograde pyelogram are used to diagnose the presence of disease in the ureter such as stricture (scarring) or tumours. Ureteroscopy involves passing a telescope to visualise the ureter, whilst retrograde pyelogram involves injecting dye into the ureter.  An x-ray is taken to show the outline of the ureter and any abnormalities present.

 

How is it done?

 

This procedure is done under a general anaesthetic.  The procedure is performed through the urethra (urinary passage).  The surgeon passes a telescope (cystoscope) through the urethra to the bladder. A very fine wire is then passed up the ureter all the way to the kidney. This acts as a guide during the surgery as the ureteroscope is passed through the ureter. A special x-ray called a retrograde pyelogram is then performed through a straw-like catheter which is used to inject contrast material up the ureter.  This helps identify the lesion in the ureter.

 

Prior to your operation.

 

You will be required to fast for this procedure, normally 6 hrs prior to your procedure. If you have any x-rays relating to this operation, please ensure you bring them to hospital with you. Please discuss with your Doctor before the procedure if you are taking Aspirin, Warfarin, Plavix or Arthritis medication and any other blood thinning medication. 

 

After the procedure.

 

This procedure is minimally invasive but may cause some discomfort immediately after surgery. You will be given pain relief as needed.

You may experience some discomfort when passing urine for several hours. Your urine may be blood stained. Drink plenty of fluid.


Please notify us or present to the Emergency Department at John Flynn Hospital if

  • You pass bright red blood or large clots in the urine
  • High fevers, shivering, shaking
  • Your urine becomes cloudy, smelly and you develop burning/stinging whilst passing urine
  • Your are unable to pass urine