Kidney, Urinary Stone Treatment, Surgery and Removal Methods

Most kidney stones pass out spontaneously within 24 to 48 hours. However, if a kidney stone (renal calculus) does not pass out or is causing an obstruction of the urinary tract, other forms of medical intervention is considered. A range of kidney stone medication is available, not only for pain relief, but also to assist with passing out the kidney stone. If these measures fail, further treatment may include more invasive procedures. Kidney stone removal may involve a number of methods and it depends on the availability of facilities and equipment as well as the individual case.

Methods for Removal of Kidney Stone, Urinary Stones

Open surgery for kidney stone removal is rare these days. A host of other options are available which are lower risk and quicker. These techniques ‘crush’ the stone (lithotripsy) into smaller stones so that it can be passed out easily or physically removed in the operating theater. The most common of these is extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy or ESWL for short. Other options include ureteroscopic lithotripsy or percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Urinary Stone Locations

Depending on the location of the kidney stone, the urologist will select the most appropriate method. Despite the general guidelines below, your urologist may decide upon a certain procedure based on multiple factors that is taken into consideration.

Kidney Stone in Renal Pelvis of Kidney

The best methods for removal of a kidney stone in this location is an ESWL or percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Open surgery is the last option.

Urinary Stone in Upper Ureter

This is the part of the ureter closer to the kidney. ESWL for breaking down a stone near the middle of the ureter is less successful and ureteroscopic destruction may be a better option . The best methods for this location is ESWL or ureteroscopic destruction (laser or mechanical). Laparoscopic removal may be considered if the other options are not available or feasible but it is rarely used. Open surgery is the last option.

Urinary Stone in the Lower Ureter

This is the part of the ureter closer to the bladder. The best methods for kidney stone removal at this location is ESWL or ureteroscopic destruction (laser or mechanical). Basket extraction may be necessary.

Urinary Stone in Bladder

Cystoscopic destruction is usually considered. However, stones in the bladder can become quite large and open surgery may be necessary in this instance.