Treatment Overview
Retrograde Ureteral Stone Removal in Korea is a minimally invasive procedure for removing stones from the ureter and kidney by accessing them through the urinary tract. Using a ureteroscope inserted via the urethra and bladder, urologists can visualize, fragment, and extract stones without external incisions.
Korean hospitals are globally recognized for advanced endourology technologies, highly skilled urologists, and modern imaging systems, making Korea a leading destination for safe and effective retrograde ureteral stone removal.
Purpose & Benefits
The main goal of retrograde ureteral stone removal is to eliminate obstructive stones, relieve pain, prevent infection, and preserve kidney function.
Key benefits include:
- Minimally invasive stone removal through the natural urinary pathway
- Rapid relief from ureteral colic and obstruction
- High success rates with short recovery times
- Reduced risk of infection and kidney damage
- Ability to treat stones of various sizes and hardness
- Short hospital stay and minimal postoperative discomfort
- Long-term follow-up care to prevent stone recurrence
Korean hospitals combine expert surgical skills and advanced technologies to ensure the best outcomes.
Ideal Candidates
Retrograde ureteral stone removal is suitable for patients who:
- Have stones located in the ureter or kidney causing obstruction or severe pain
- Have stones that cannot pass naturally
- Experience recurrent urinary tract infections or kidney function compromise due to stones
- Require minimally invasive and rapid intervention
- Seek high precision and success rates with minimal complications
Korean hospitals provide personalized evaluation and treatment plans for international patients.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although retrograde ureteral stone removal is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Temporary hematuria (blood in urine)
- Urinary tract infection
- Rare injury to the ureter or surrounding tissue
- Residual stone fragments requiring secondary procedures
- Mild discomfort or pain during urination post-surgery
- Anesthesia-related complications
Korean hospitals minimize risks using real-time imaging, careful technique, and comprehensive postoperative care.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals utilize advanced retrograde ureteral stone removal technologies:
- Flexible and Rigid Ureteroscopy: Direct visualization and access to ureteral or renal stones
- Laser Lithotripsy (Holmium or Thulium): Fragmentation or vaporization of stones for easy extraction
- Stone Retrieval Baskets & Forceps: Ensures complete removal of stone fragments
- Ureteral Stenting: Temporary stent to maintain urine flow and prevent obstruction
- Imaging Guidance (CT, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy): Accurate stone localization during surgery
- Minimally Invasive Approach: Reduces tissue trauma and accelerates recovery
- Pain Management and Postoperative Care: Ensures patient comfort and safety
This combination ensures high stone clearance rates with minimal invasiveness.
Treatment Process in Korea
International patients can access a structured retrograde ureteral stone removal pathway:
1. Consultation and Assessment
- Review of medical history, symptoms, and prior stone events
- Imaging (CT, X-ray, or ultrasound) and lab tests to evaluate stone size, location, and kidney function
2. Preoperative Preparation
- Fasting, hydration, and preoperative medications as needed
- Multilingual support for international patients
3. Surgical Procedure
- Performed under general or regional anesthesia
- Flexible or rigid ureteroscope is inserted via the urethra and bladder to the ureter
- Stones are fragmented using laser lithotripsy or removed with baskets
- Temporary ureteral stent may be placed to ensure proper urine flow
4. Postoperative Monitoring
- Monitoring for bleeding, infection, and urine output
- Hospital stay usually ranges from a few hours (day surgery) to 1–2 days
5. Follow-Up Care
- Imaging confirms complete stone clearance
- Guidance on hydration, diet, and lifestyle to prevent recurrence
- Stent removal (if used) and telemedicine support for international patients
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery after retrograde ureteral stone removal is generally smooth:
- Mild hematuria or discomfort may persist for a few days
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 1–2 weeks
- Maintain high fluid intake to flush out residual fragments
- Follow dietary and medication guidance to prevent recurrence
- Attend follow-up appointments for stent removal and imaging
Korean hospitals provide comprehensive discharge instructions and remote support for international patients.
Results & Longevity
Retrograde ureteral stone removal provides highly effective and durable outcomes:
- Rapid relief from ureteral obstruction and pain
- High success rates for stones of varying sizes and locations
- Minimally invasive procedure with reduced recovery time
- Preservation of kidney function and urinary health
- Long-term prevention of recurrent stones through follow-up care
Korean urologists ensure durable results and excellent patient satisfaction.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a preferred destination for retrograde ureteral stone removal due to:
- Highly experienced urologists specializing in endourology
- Advanced laser, endoscopic, and imaging technology
- State-of-the-art hospitals with rapid intervention and emergency care
- Short hospital stays and accelerated recovery protocols
- 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, precise, and high-quality retrograde ureteral stone removal.
Cost Range
Estimated costs for retrograde ureteral stone removal in Korea:
- Consultation and imaging: USD 150–400
- Retrograde ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy: USD 3,500–7,500
- Hospital stay (1–2 days): USD 200–800
- Postoperative care and medications: USD 100–300
- Total estimated package: USD 3,950–8,500
Costs may vary depending on stone size, procedure complexity, hospital, and additional services. International patient packages are available.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals providing retrograde ureteral stone removal include:
- Seoul National University Hospital – Urology & Endourology Department
- Asan Medical Center – Minimally Invasive Stone Surgery Unit
- Samsung Medical Center – Urology & Endourology Clinic
- Severance Hospital – Endourology and Stone Management Program
- Korea University Hospital – Flexible RIRS & URS Unit
- Bundang CHA Medical Center – Urology & Stone Removal Clinic
These centers are known for expert surgeons, advanced technology, and comprehensive patient care, making them ideal for international medical tourists.
