Ureteroscopy

March 24, 2026

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Wesley Yip, M.D., assistant professor, Division of Urology and Urologic Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope^® Cancer Center Duarte

During the diagnosis process for conditions such as kidney stones or upper tract urothelial carcinoma, a ureteroscopy may be performed to view a patient’s renal pelvis and ureters (the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder and carry urine). This procedure examines the tissue and structures in the urinary tract, and it aids with the diagnosis and treatment of urothelial tumors. It is also performed for noncancerous reasons, such as checking for stones, strictures (narrowing) and recurring urinary tract infections.

What Is Ureteroscopy?

A ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that helps identify issues in the urinary tract. It helps doctors see tissue in the ureters and renal pelvis up close and may be used to collect a tissue sample (biopsy) for examination under a microscope.

The ureteroscope is thin and flexible, with a light and camera at one end. It’s inserted through the urethra and bladder and up into the ureters. The procedure is performed by a urologist, typically under general anesthesia so the patient is asleep during the procedure.

Ureteroscopy is usually an outpatient procedure. Most patients go home the same day, but some patients may require a hospital stay.

Preparing for Ureteroscopy

Along with the general instructions detailed below, the care team will provide detailed information on how to prepare for a ureteroscopy and what time to arrive for the procedure. 

Like any procedure requiring sedation or anesthesia, patients should arrange for someone to take them home afterward.

Patients are often asked not to eat or drink after midnight the evening before the procedure. Doctors may also ask patients not to take some medications, such as aspirin or blood thinners, temporarily. Patients should always check with the doctor about which medications should be taken on the day of the procedure.

Ureteroscopy Procedure

Ureteroscopies are usually performed at a hospital or outpatient surgery center. Patients may be given a sedative to help them relax and reduce anxiety. In the surgery room, patients receive general anesthesia through an intravenous (IV) needle in their arm or hand to put them into a deep sleep. Vital signs will be monitored continuously during the procedure. Some patients may require a laryngeal mask airway or intubation tube to ensure their airway stays open during the procedure.

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the doctor will gently insert the scope into the urethra and slowly guide it to the bladder. When it is in place, the bladder will then be filled with saline (sterile water). This expands the wall, giving the doctor a better view. The scope is then advanced to the kidneys, often under X-ray guidance, for a more complete view of the urinary system.

During the procedure, a biopsy may be performed to obtain tissue samples for laboratory analysis. The procedure usually takes 15 minutes to an hour, depending on whether a biopsy is needed or another procedure needs to be done.

When the ureteroscopy is complete, the doctor may drain the saline solution from the bladder or ask the patient to urinate.

Is Ureteroscopy Painful?

After a ureteroscopy, patients typically have mild pain in their flank area (the sides of the body between the lower ribs and hips) or lower abdomen/bladder area. The pain is usually tolerated well with prescribed oral pain medication, which may be changed to an over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol® or Motrin® after a few days.

When Is a Kidney Stent Used With Ureteroscopy?

During ureteroscopy, a stent may be placed in the ureter to prevent swelling and ensure the continued flow of urine. This is a temporary internal tube, made of plastic, which is usually removed one to two weeks after the procedure. It is usually removed in the doctor’s office, but occasionally a thread is attached to the end of the stent and taped to the patient’s upper thigh so it may be removed at home.

Ureteroscopy Recovery

After the patient is awake and able to move around and urinate, he or she is usually discharged one to four hours after the procedure. Discomfort during urination, as well as blood in the urine, is common after a ureteroscopy. If a stent was placed, some pain in the flank area at night and immediately after urination is to be expected.

Patients may follow these general guidelines to recover well:

• Rest for the first day
• Drink 16 ounces of water hourly for the first few hours after the procedure to help flush out the urinary tract
• A damp, warm washcloth held over the urethral opening or a warm bath may ease discomfort
• Take medicines as recommended, such as pain medications, antibiotics and medications to help relax the urethra to reduce the risk of infection and relieve discomfort
• If a stent was placed during the procedure, reduce activity until it is removed

Patients should contact their doctor or seek medical care if they experience any of the following:

• Bright red urine
• Inability to urinate even when the bladder feels full
• Fever
• Acute pain
• Painful urination for more than two days

Ureteroscopy Results

The cancer care team will discuss results with each patient and determine the next steps as soon as possible. If a tissue sample has been taken, it is sent to the laboratory to be studied under a microscope. A pathologist will look for any abnormal cells or signs of disease. Laboratory results may take several days.

If abnormal or cancer cells are seen, more tests may be ordered to determine an upper tract urothelial carcinoma stage, which helps describe how far, if at all, the cancer has spread. Further tests in the diagnosis and staging process may include urine chemistry tests, imaging tests or additional biopsies.

These steps help the cancer care team determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient.