It might surprise you, but kidney stones can be particularly difficult to treat, especially when they are located in hard-to-reach areas of the kidney. Traditional methods may not always be effective or minimally invasive.
Patients often endure pain and discomfort from kidney stones, and the prospect of complex or invasive procedures can add to their stress. Additionally, the risk of incomplete stone removal can lead to further complications and recurrent issues.
FANS or Suction RIRS offer advanced, minimally invasive solutions for effectively managing kidney stones, even in challenging locations within the kidney. These methods provide precise, thorough treatment, improving patient outcomes and comfort. But what exactly are FANS RIRS and Suction RIRS? Let’s explore these innovative procedures and understand how they work.
Kidney Stones and Their Impact
Kidney stones are a common health issue globally, causing significant discomfort and posing serious health risks if not treated promptly. The formation of kidney stones begins when the concentration of crystal-forming substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, exceeds the ability of the urine to dilute them. Additionally, if the urine lacks certain substances that normally prevent crystals from sticking together, an ideal environment is created for stone formation.
The symptoms of kidney stones often become noticeable only when the stones start moving through the ureters—the tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder. The primary symptom is intense, fluctuating pain that can vary in severity. Other symptoms may include pain during urination, unusual changes in urine color, nausea, vomiting, and frequent urination. If you suspect you have kidney stones, consulting a urologist for a thorough diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment.
What is Suction RIRS (FANS)?
Suction RIRS is an advanced technique used in the treatment of kidney stones, combining the principles of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) with the use of a specialized device called the Flexible And Navigable Suction Ureteric Access Sheath (FANS).
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is a minimally invasive procedure where a flexible ureteroscope is passed through the urethra, bladder, and ureter to reach the kidney. This allows the surgeon to visualize and treat kidney stones directly within the kidney’s collecting system. Traditionally, during RIRS, the stones are either fragmented using a laser or other energy sources and then removed, or they are broken down into tiny pieces (stone dust), which are left to pass naturally through the urinary system.
The Role of FANS in Suction RIRS
The FANS sheath is designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of RIRS. It has a built-in suction mechanism that allows for the immediate removal of stone dust and fragments during the procedure. This is crucial because, in traditional RIRS, stone dust and smaller fragments might remain in the kidney, posing a risk of recurrence or the need for additional procedures.
By incorporating suction directly into the process, Suction RIRS with FANS ensures that these residual particles are actively cleared away, reducing the likelihood of complications and improving overall patient outcomes. The sheath is also flexible and navigable, meaning it can be maneuvered through the kidney’s complex anatomy to reach stones in difficult locations, enhancing the surgeon’s ability to treat stones in challenging or hard-to-reach areas.
Advantages of Suction RIRS
- Improved Stone Clearance: The suction mechanism effectively removes stone fragments and dust during the procedure. By collecting all the debris in a container, the FANS sheath ensures that no residual particles remain in the kidney, which significantly increases the stone-free rate.
- Minimally Invasive: Suction RIRS maintains the minimally invasive nature of traditional RIRS, which translates to less pain and a faster recovery for the patient.
- Reduced Complications: By clearing away stone debris and preventing its accumulation, Suction RIRS reduces the risk of post-operative complications and the need for additional treatments. It also lowers the chances of infection since there is less opportunity for stone dust to cause irritation or inflammation.
- Enhanced Precision: The flexible and navigable design of the FANS sheath allows for effective access to stones in challenging locations within the kidney, ensuring thorough treatment.
Suction RIRS represents a significant advancement in kidney stone treatment, offering a more effective and patient-friendly approach by combining traditional RIRS with the enhanced capabilities of the FANS device.
CureStone: Offering Advanced Treatments for Kidney Stones
If you’re dealing with kidney stones or have concerns related to your condition, we’re here to assist you. At CureStone, our team specializes in using advanced methods for kidney stone treatment. We are committed to delivering effective pain relief and personalized care tailored to your needs.
Our experts will guide you through every phase of your treatment journey, from the initial consultation to your recovery. We focus on providing the most effective solutions to ensure your comfort and enhance your outcomes. Whether you require immediate relief or long-term management, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a healthier and more comfortable life.
Don’t let kidney stones disrupt your daily life—contact us today for expert evaluation and personalized treatment. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care that addresses your specific needs, helping you achieve a pain-free and healthier future. With our advanced methods and supportive guidance, we aim to improve your well-being and ensure long-term relief from kidney stones.