Treatment Overview
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat kidney and ureteral stones by accessing the kidney through the urinary tract. Using a flexible ureteroscope, surgeons can directly visualize and fragment stones with laser lithotripsy, allowing for complete removal while minimizing trauma.
Korean hospitals are globally renowned for advanced endourological technology, highly skilled urologists, and high success rates, making Korea a top destination for international patients seeking RIRS.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of RIRS is to remove kidney and ureter stones safely and effectively while preserving urinary tract function.
Key benefits include:
- Access to stones in all areas of the kidney, including difficult-to-reach locations
- Minimally invasive procedure with no external incisions
- High success rate for complete stone removal
- Short hospital stay or outpatient procedure
- Rapid recovery and return to normal life
- Reduced risk of complications compared to open surgery
- Prevention of recurrent infections or kidney damage
Korean urology centers focus on precision, safety, and patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Ideal Candidates
RIRS is suitable for patients who:
- Have kidney or ureteral stones that cannot pass naturally
- Have stones in hard-to-reach locations
- Require minimally invasive stone removal
- Suffer from pain, urinary obstruction, or recurrent urinary tract infections
- Are in good overall health and fit for anesthesia
Korean hospitals provide personalized treatment plans for both domestic and international patients.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although RIRS is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Minor bleeding or hematuria (blood in urine)
- Urinary tract infection
- Temporary pain or burning sensation during urination
- Ureteral or kidney injury
- Rare need for repeat procedure if residual stone fragments remain
- Anesthesia-related complications
Korean hospitals minimize risks with high-resolution imaging, laser lithotripsy, and meticulous surgical techniques.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals employ state-of-the-art RIRS techniques:
- Flexible Ureteroscope: Navigates through the ureter and kidney for direct visualization of stones
- Holmium Laser Lithotripsy: Efficiently fragments stones for removal or natural passage
- High-Resolution Imaging (CT, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy): Guides precise localization of stones
- Micro-Endoscopic Instruments: Minimize trauma to the urinary tract
- Ureteral Stents: Temporary stents ensure smooth urinary flow and healing
- Postoperative Monitoring Devices: Detect early complications for patient safety
These advanced technologies ensure safe, precise, and minimally invasive stone removal.
Treatment Process in Korea
The RIRS procedure for international patients follows a clear and organized pathway:
1. Consultation and Evaluation
Urologists assess stone size, location, and patient health using imaging studies and laboratory tests.
2. Preoperative Preparation
Patients receive instructions on fasting, hydration, and medications. International patient coordinators assist with hospital admission and language support.
3. Surgical Procedure
Under general or regional anesthesia:
- The flexible ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra and bladder into the ureter
- Stones are visualized and fragmented using laser lithotripsy
- Fragments are removed or allowed to pass naturally
- Temporary ureteral stents may be placed to maintain urinary flow
4. Postoperative Monitoring
Patients are monitored for pain, bleeding, or infection. Most are discharged the same day or after a short hospital stay.
5. Follow-Up Care
Follow-up includes imaging to confirm complete stone removal, stent removal if used, and lifestyle guidance to prevent recurrence. Telemedicine support is available for international patients.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery after RIRS is generally fast and straightforward:
- Mild discomfort or burning sensation during urination for a few days
- Temporary hematuria may occur
- Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for 1–2 weeks
- Drink plenty of water to help flush residual stone fragments
- Follow dietary and medication recommendations to prevent recurrence
- Attend follow-up appointments for imaging and stent removal if necessary
Korean hospitals provide comprehensive discharge instructions and remote support for international patients.
Results & Longevity
RIRS provides immediate and long-lasting results:
- Relief from pain and urinary obstruction immediately after the procedure
- Complete stone removal in most cases, including hard-to-reach stones
- Minimal trauma or scarring due to minimally invasive approach
- Rapid return to daily activities and work
- Long-term urinary tract and kidney health with preventive care
- Reduced risk of recurrent stones or infections
Korean urologists ensure high patient satisfaction and durable outcomes.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a preferred destination for RIRS due to:
- Expert urologists specializing in endourology and minimally invasive procedures
- Advanced flexible ureteroscopic and laser lithotripsy technology
- State-of-the-art hospitals with strict infection control
- Short hospital stays and outpatient procedure options
- Multilingual support for international medical tourists
- Competitive and transparent cost structures
- Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, including telemedicine follow-up
These factors make Korea ideal for safe, effective, and high-quality RIRS stone removal.
Cost Range
Estimated costs for RIRS in Korea:
- Consultation and preoperative imaging: USD 100–250
- Procedure (RIRS with laser lithotripsy): USD 4,000–7,500
- Hospital stay (if required): USD 200–500
- Postoperative care and medications: USD 100–200
- Total estimated package: USD 4,400–8,000
Costs vary depending on stone size, complexity, hospital, and additional services. Coordinated care packages are available for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals and clinics providing RIRS include:
- Seoul National University Hospital – Urology Department
- Asan Medical Center – Advanced Endourology Unit
- Samsung Medical Center – Urology & Stone Management
- Severance Hospital – Urology and Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Korea University Hospital – Endourology & Laser Lithotripsy
- Bundang CHA Medical Center – Urology & Stone Clinic
These centers are known for expert surgeons, advanced technology, and comprehensive care, making them ideal for international medical tourists.
