Novel approach to retrograde ureterorenoscopy: a case report of laparoscopic-assisted ureterorenoscopy for minor calyx stone removal

A 16-year-old male presented to OPD with right-sided flank pain associated with lower urinary tract symptoms. CT scan and ultrasound findings demonstrated a 12.9 mm renal stone in the lower calyx and moderate hydronephrosis, respectively. The diagnosis of pelvic ureteric junction obstruction was confirmed by a diethylenetriamine pentaacetate (DTPA) scan. Laparoscopic pyeloplasty was planned but to remove the stone from a hard-to-reach location i.e. minor calyx, ureterorenoscope was introduced from one of the laparoscopic ports. The stone was retrieved successfully. This case represents the implementation of laparoscopic-assisted ureteroscopy instead of conventional retrograde ureteroscopy. This technique warrants further study as it makes the overall procedure more efficient and time-saving.