Ureteroscopy with stone extraction removes a stone from the ureter or kidney using a small scope passed through the body's natural urinary pathway. The scope travels through the urethra and bladder and into the ureter, allowing the urologist to see the stone directly. If the stone is small enough, a tiny basket or specialized grasping instrument can capture it and remove it intact or in pieces. If necessary, the stone may first be fragmented to make removal easier. A temporary ureteral stent may be placed after the procedure to keep urine flowing while swelling decreases and the ureter heals.