Stone Surgery
Stone surgery, also known as kidney stone removal, is performed to remove kidney stones that are too large to pass naturally or cause significant pain or complications. In such cases, consulting an experienced stone specialist helps determine the most suitable treatment.
There are several surgical methods, including extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), which uses sound waves to break the stones into smaller pieces, and ureteroscopy, where a thin scope is inserted to remove or break up the stone. Another procedure is percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), which involves a small incision to remove larger stones directly from the kidney. A stone specialist may also provide proper diagnosis and gallbladder stone treatment for patients suffering from gallstones and related complications.
Recovery depends on the procedure used, but patients typically resume normal activities within a few days to weeks.
There are different types of kidney stones, and each type forms due to different reasons in the body. Understanding the type of stone helps doctors and stone specialists choose the right treatment.
These are the most common type of kidney stones. They form when calcium combines with oxalate, a substance found in many foods such as spinach, nuts, and chocolate.
These stones develop when calcium mixes with phosphate in the urine. They are often linked to certain metabolic conditions or urinary issues.
Uric acid stones form when the urine becomes too acidic. They are commonly seen in people who eat a high-protein diet or have conditions like gout.
These stones usually develop because of urinary tract infections. They can grow quickly and may become quite large if not treated early.
Cystine stones are rare and usually occur in people with a genetic condition that causes the body to release too much cystine in the urine.
Kidney: The most common symptom of kidney stones is severe pain in the back and side, often radiating to the lower abdomen and groin. This pain can come in waves and may be accompanied by:
Gall Bladder:
Kidney: Several factors can contribute to the formation of kidney stones, including:
Gall Bladder Stone:
The treatment approach for kidney stones depends on factors such as the size, type, and location of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms.
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Kidney stones can cause severe pain, often described as sharp and intense, usually in the back or side. Other common symptoms include frequent urination, painful urination, blood in the urine, nausea, and vomiting.
Kidney stones form when substances in urine, like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, crystallize and stick together. This can be caused by factors such as dehydration, diet, certain medical conditions, and family history.
Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL) is a non-invasive procedure used to break kidney stones into smaller pieces. These smaller pieces can then pass through the urinary tract more easily.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for at least 8 glasses (about 2 liters) of water daily. However, your specific water needs may vary based on factors like activity level, climate, and overall health.
To prevent kidney stones, drink plenty of water, reduce sodium intake, limit animal protein, and consume a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.