Preparing for RIRS: Pre-op Checklist, Diet, What to Bring and What to Expect

Medicine Made Simple Summary

Being prepared makes any surgery smoother and less stressful — and RIRS is no exception. This guide walks you through everything you need to know before your RIRS procedure. You’ll learn how to prepare your body, what to eat and avoid, what to bring to the hospital, and what actually happens on the day of your surgery. With the right preparation, you’ll feel confident and calm every step of the way.

1. Understanding What RIRS Is and Why Preparation Matters

RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) is a minimally invasive procedure to remove kidney stones. It uses a thin, flexible scope passed through the urethra, bladder, and ureter to reach the kidney — no external cuts or stitches.

Although it’s a gentle and safe procedure, careful preparation ensures smooth surgery, fewer complications, and faster recovery. Think of it as preparing for a short journey — the more ready you are, the more comfortable and successful it will be.

2. Pre-Surgery Evaluation and Tests

Before RIRS, your doctor will order a few tests to assess your overall health and surgical readiness. These may include:

• Blood tests: To check kidney function, hemoglobin, and infection markers.
• Urine test: To rule out any active infection.
• ECG and chest X-ray: Especially if you’re above 40 or have other medical conditions.
• Imaging (CT scan or ultrasound): To confirm stone size and location.

If you have a urinary tract infection, your doctor will treat it with antibiotics before scheduling RIRS, since surgery can’t be performed safely with active infection.

3. Medications to Discuss with Your Doctor

Certain medicines can interfere with anesthesia or increase bleeding risk. Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you’re taking.

You may be asked to stop:

• Blood thinners (like aspirin, warfarin, or clopidogrel) 5–7 days before surgery.
• Diabetes medications on the morning of surgery (adjustments will be advised).
• Herbal supplements like ginkgo, ginseng, or garlic tablets, which can affect clotting.

Never stop any prescribed medicine on your own — always check first.

4. What to Eat and Drink Before Surgery

Your diet plays a key role in smooth anesthesia and recovery. Follow these simple rules:

• A light dinner the night before surgery — something easy to digest like rice, soup, or dal.
• No food or drink after midnight (or at least 6–8 hours before your procedure).
• Avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks 24 hours before surgery.

If you’re diabetic, your doctor will guide you on when to take insulin or eat before admission.

5. What to Bring to the Hospital

You don’t need to overpack — RIRS is usually a short-stay procedure. Here’s what’s useful to carry:

• Hospital papers and ID proof (admission form, insurance card, reports).
• Comfortable loose clothing.
• Toiletries and slippers.
• List of medications you take daily.
• Glasses or hearing aids, if you use them.
• A family member or friend to accompany you and help post-surgery.

Leave valuables, jewelry, and electronic gadgets at home.

6. The Night Before Surgery

• Take a shower and sleep early — rest is important for recovery.
• Remove nail polish, contact lenses, or makeup before going to the hospital.
• If prescribed, take preoperative medicines (like antibiotics or stomach acid reducers).
• Don’t eat or drink after midnight unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember — RIRS is a routine, safe, and commonly performed procedure.

7. What Happens on the Day of Surgery

Here’s a step-by-step look at what you can expect on your RIRS day:

• Admission: You’ll arrive at the hospital a few hours before surgery. Nurses will check your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature.
• Pre-op preparation: You’ll change into a hospital gown. A small IV line will be inserted for fluids and medications.
• Meeting your anesthetist: They’ll ask about allergies, past surgeries, and medical history before giving anesthesia (usually general anesthesia).
• The procedure: The surgery takes about 45–90 minutes, depending on stone size. The surgeon uses a laser to fragment and remove stones.
• Post-surgery recovery: You’ll rest in the recovery room for a few hours. Most patients can eat light food and walk by evening.

8. Will You Have a Stent After RIRS?

In many cases, a temporary ureteric stent is placed after surgery to help urine flow and reduce swelling. It’s a soft tube inside your urinary tract that’s removed after 7–14 days.

You might feel mild back or bladder discomfort while it’s in place — that’s normal and temporary.

9. What to Expect After Surgery

Once you wake up, mild burning or a small amount of blood in urine is common. You’ll be advised to:

• Drink plenty of water to flush out the kidney.
• Take prescribed antibiotics and pain medicines.
• Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous activity for a week.

You’ll likely go home the same day or after an overnight stay.

10. Common Emotions Before Surgery

It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious or restless before surgery. Patients often worry about pain or complications. Remind yourself that RIRS is one of the safest kidney stone procedures.

You can ask your doctor or nurse to explain the process again — understanding it clearly often calms anxiety. Deep breathing and a good night’s sleep help too.

11. How to Mentally Prepare

• Trust your surgical team — RIRS is a well-practiced, routine procedure.
• Arrange your home for comfort after discharge — keep water nearby, plan easy meals, and have help for a few days if needed.
• Think positive: You’re taking a step toward being pain-free and healthier.

12. Quick Recap: The RIRS Pre-Op Checklist

Here’s a simple list to review before surgery:

• Complete all preoperative tests.
• Stop blood thinners and herbal medicines as advised.
• Avoid eating or drinking after midnight.
• Pack light essentials and reports.
• Get good rest the night before.
• Reach the hospital on time with a companion.

Preparation doesn’t just reduce risk — it helps you feel calm, confident, and ready.

13. Summary: Preparation Is the First Step to Smooth Recovery

Good preparation leads to good outcomes. Following your doctor’s instructions about diet, medicines, and hospital readiness ensures that your RIRS goes smoothly and recovery is quick.

Arrive relaxed, hydrated, and informed — that’s the best way to begin your healing journey.

Conclusion

If you’ve been advised to undergo RIRS, start preparing early. Talk to your doctor about your medicines, diet, and stent plan. Being informed and organized will help you feel confident and recover faster.