Transurethral ureteroscopic stone extraction.

Transurethral ureteroscopy has now been used for stone retrieval in 31 patients with ureteric calculi. Four stones were located in the upper third, nine in the middle third and eighteen in the lower third of the ureter. The stones varied in size from 4 to 10 mm in diameter. Successful retrieval of the stones was achieved at the first attempt in 17 and at a second attempt in 3. Of the 11 failures (due to impaction, dislodgement into the pelvis or failed instrumentation), 4 have required open ureterolithotomy, 2 percutaneous nephroscopy and 2 ureteric meatotomies; 3 have been successfully disintegrated in situ. There have been no significant complications to date. Transurethral ureteroscopy appears to offer an alternative to existing therapeutic options.