Kidney Stone Removal

Stones are removed or broken up. Which method is used depends almost entirely on where the stone sits and how large it is.

The options

• Shockwave lithotripsy — no incision; sound waves break the stone and the fragments pass. Best for smaller stones in the kidney.
• Ureteroscopy with laser — a fine telescope passes up the urinary tract and the stone is fragmented. Suits stones in the ureter.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy — a small track through the back into the kidney, for large or staghorn stones.

Recovery and what to expect

Day case to three nights depending on the method. A ureteric stent is often left temporarily and can cause urinary urgency and discomfort until it is removed; knowing that in advance makes it far easier to tolerate.

Preventing the next one

Stones recur in a large proportion of patients. Ask for the stone to be analysed and for a metabolic assessment — without them, prevention is guesswork.

What we arrange around it

About a week, longer if a stent needs removing before you fly. We arrange that removal rather than leaving it to you.