CULLS for Kidney Stones: Advanced Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy at UPNT

A Minimally Invasive Option for Large or Complex Kidney Stones in the DFW Area
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At Urology Partners of North Texas (UPNT), we offer state-of-the-art kidney stone treatment, including CULLS, a highly effective, minimally invasive option for treating larger or more complex kidney stones. CULLS stands for:

Your UPNT surgeon may recommend CULLS for:

CULLS allows your UPNT surgeon to access and break the stone into small fragments using advanced technology. Most patients recover quickly and resume normal activities within a few days.

CULLS vs. ESWL: Which Treatment is Right for You?

Both CULLS (ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy) and ESWL (shock wave lithotripsy) are effective for kidney stones, but they are used in different situations based on the size and location of the stone.

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When to Choose ESWL (Shock Wave Lithotripsy):

Your UPNT surgeon will recommend ESWL if the stone is well-positioned for shock wave therapy and is likely to break up effectively.

When to Consider CULLS (Laser Lithotripsy):

CULLS uses a small scope and laser to break up and remove stones with precision, especially for complex or stubborn cases.
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Step-by-Step Breakdown of CULLS

CULLS is a combination of several steps, each performed with precision by your UPNT surgeon to ensure complete removal of the stone.

1. Cystoscopy

The first step is cystoscopy, which allows your UPNT surgeon to examine your urinary tract and access the stone.

2. Ureteroscopy

Once the stone’s location is confirmed, your UPNT surgeon performs ureteroscopy to reach the stone in the ureter or kidney.

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3. Advanced Laser Technology with the Moses™ Laser

At UPNT, we perform CULS (laser lithotripsy) using the Moses™ holmium laser, one of the most advanced tools available for kidney and ureteral stone removal.

Unlike older laser systems, Moses Technology delivers energy with greater precision and less stone movement, allowing your surgeon to break up stones:

Whether your stone is large, dense, or located in a difficult area, the Moses laser gives us greater control — which means a smoother procedure and faster recovery for you.

Ask your UPNT surgeon if the Moses™ laser is the right choice for your stone treatment.

4. Stent Placement

Finally, a ureteral stent is placed to ensure proper drainage and prevent blockages as the stone fragments pass.

Why Most Patients Need a Stent After CULLS

A ureteral stent plays a crucial role in preventing complications and ensuring smooth recovery after CULLS.

What Does a Ureteral Stent Do?

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How is the Stent Placed?

The stent is placed during the procedure using cystoscopy while you’re under anesthesia, so you won’t feel a thing.

Temporary and Easy to Remove

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients recover quickly after CULLS. Here’s what to expect:

Your UPNT surgeon will provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy

Why is CULLS (Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy) used instead of or after ESWL?
CULLS is typically used for residual stones after ESWL, larger or denser stones, or stones in challenging locations like the lower pole of the kidney. It offers more precision when shock wave treatment isn’t effective.

The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the stone. Larger stones may take longer to treat, while smaller stones require less time.

You’ll be under general anesthesia during the procedure, so you won’t feel anything. Afterward, you may experience mild discomfort or cramping, which improves within a few days.

Most patients have a stent for 1–3 weeks. Your UPNT surgeon will remove it during a quick, outpatient procedure.

A Holmium laser delivers high-energy pulses to break the stone into tiny fragments. These fragments either pass naturally or are removed with a small basket.

Why Most Patients Need a Stent After CULLS

A ureteral stent plays a crucial role in preventing complications and ensuring smooth recovery after CULLS.

What Does a Ureteral Stent Do?

How is the Stent Placed?

The stent is placed during the procedure using cystoscopy while you’re under anesthesia, so you won’t feel a thing.

Temporary and Easy to Remove

Book an Appointment for Kidney Stone Treatment

At Urology Partners of North Texas, we offer advanced kidney stone treatment options like CULLS to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

Conveniently located in Arlington and Fort Worth, we’re here to help you find relief from kidney stones.

Why Wait? Book Your Appointment Today!

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