Abstract
Use of the ureteroscope to remove ureteral calculi under direct vision has improved the safety and efficacy of transurethral calculus management. As an adjunct to basketing with ureteroscopy, prior placement of a ureteral catheter for several days enables one to avoid the complications associated with rapid ureteral dilatation and immediate calculus extraction. It is also advantageous to leave an indwelling ureteral catheter to lessen postmanipulation colic and to facilitate ureteral healing following more traumatic extractions. In 25 consecutive patients, the original ureteral catheter used for soft dilatation was replaced for postmanipulation stenting immediately after calculus extraction. The only failure in the series was the result of an anesthetic reaction prior to ureteroscopy, and the stone passed spontaneously from the dilated ureter.
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