Kidney Stone Surgery

Kidney stone surgery is a medical procedure performed to remove kidney stones that are causing pain, obstruction, infection, or other complications in the urinary system. The choice of surgical technique depends on factors such as the size, location, and composition of the kidney stones, as well as the patient's overall health and medical history. Here are some common surgical approaches for treating kidney stones: 1. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up kidney stones into smaller fragments that can be passed naturally through the urinary tract. It is typically used for small to medium-sized stones located in the kidney or upper ureter. ESWL is often an outpatient procedure and does not require an incision. 2. Ureteroscopy (URS): Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube called a ureteroscope through the urethra and into the urinary tract. This allows the surgeon to visualize the stone and either remove it with a small basket-like device or fragment it with a laser. URS is suitable for stones located in the ureter or kidney. 3. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): PCNL is a more invasive surgical procedure used for larger kidney stones or stones that are difficult to reach with other methods. It involves making a small incision in the patient's back and inserting a nephroscope through the skin and into the kidney to directly remove or fragment the stones. PCNL is typically performed under general anesthesia. 4. Open Surgery: In rare cases when other methods are not feasible or effective, open surgery may be required. This involves making a larger incision in the abdomen or flank to access and remove the kidney stone directly. The choice of the most appropriate surgical approach depends on the specific characteristics of the kidney stone and the patient's individual circumstances.