Treatment Overview
Rigid Ureteroscopy in Korea is a minimally invasive procedure to remove ureteral stones using a rigid ureteroscope. This device allows urologists to visualize the ureter, locate stones, and remove or fragment them with precision. Rigid ureteroscopy is particularly effective for stones located in the lower or middle ureter.
Korean hospitals are internationally recognized for expert urologists, advanced imaging, and state-of-the-art endourology equipment, making Korea a leading destination for safe and effective rigid ureteroscopy.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of rigid ureteroscopy is to eliminate obstructive ureteral stones, relieve pain, prevent infection, and preserve kidney function.
Key benefits include:
- Immediate relief from ureteral colic and obstruction
- High success rates with minimally invasive techniques
- Short hospital stay and rapid recovery
- Precise stone fragmentation and removal using laser lithotripsy
- Reduced risk of urinary tract infection and kidney damage
- Preparation for long-term stone prevention and follow-up
Korean hospitals combine expert surgical skills with advanced technology for optimal outcomes.
Ideal Candidates
Rigid ureteroscopy is suitable for patients who:
- Have stones located in the lower or middle ureter
- Experience pain, urinary obstruction, or recurrent infections due to stones
- Are unable to pass stones naturally
- Require rapid, minimally invasive intervention
- Seek high success rates with minimal complications
Korean hospitals provide personalized evaluation and treatment plans for both local and international patients.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although rigid ureteroscopy 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 additional procedures
- Mild discomfort during urination after surgery
- Anesthesia-related complications
Korean hospitals reduce risks through high-resolution imaging, expert surgical technique, and thorough postoperative care.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals employ advanced rigid ureteroscopy techniques and technologies:
- Rigid Ureteroscopy: Direct visualization and access to lower and middle ureter stones
- Laser Lithotripsy (Holmium or Thulium): Fragmentation of stones for easy removal
- Stone Retrieval Baskets & Forceps: Ensures complete extraction of 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 shortens recovery
- Postoperative Pain Management: Ensures patient comfort and safety
These technologies allow high stone clearance rates with minimal invasiveness.
Treatment Process in Korea
International patients can access a structured rigid ureteroscopy pathway:
1. Consultation and Assessment
- Review of medical history, symptoms, and prior stone events
- Imaging (CT, X-ray, or ultrasound) and lab tests to assess 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
- Rigid ureteroscope is used to locate and remove stones
- Laser lithotripsy fragments larger stones for extraction
- Temporary ureteral stent placement if required
4. Postoperative Monitoring
- Monitoring of urine output, bleeding, and infection
- Hospital stay usually ranges from a few hours (day surgery) to 1–2 days
5. Follow-Up Care
- Imaging confirms complete stone removal
- Guidance on hydration, diet, and lifestyle to prevent recurrence
- Stent removal (if used) and telemedicine support for international patients
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery after rigid ureteroscopy is usually straightforward:
- 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 recommendations 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
Rigid ureteroscopy provides effective and durable outcomes:
- Immediate relief from ureteral obstruction and pain
- High success rates for stone removal in the lower and middle ureter
- Minimally invasive approach reduces 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 high patient satisfaction.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a leading destination for rigid ureteroscopy due to:
- Expert 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 quick recovery protocols
- Multilingual support for international patients
- Transparent and competitive cost structures
- Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, including telemedicine follow-up
These factors make Korea ideal for safe, precise, and high-quality rigid ureteroscopy.
Cost Range
Estimated costs for rigid ureteroscopy in Korea:
- Consultation and imaging: USD 150–400
- Rigid ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy: USD 3,000–6,000
- Hospital stay (1–2 days): USD 200–800
- Postoperative care and medications: USD 100–300
- Total estimated package: USD 3,450–7,500
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 rigid ureteroscopy 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 – Rigid Ureteroscopy & Stone Removal Unit
- Bundang CHA Medical Center – Urology & Stone Surgery Clinic
These centers are known for expert surgeons, advanced technology, and comprehensive patient care, making them ideal for international medical tourists.
