What are the treatment options for kidney stones?

Dear Shahrukh Khan ji,

For kidney stones, the treatment is generally handled by a urologist rather than a general surgeon. HexaHealth lists kidney stone treatment under Urology and specifically identifies procedures such as PCNL and ureteroscopic stone removal (URS).

The appropriate treatment depends mainly on the stone’s size, location, number, symptoms, and whether it is causing urinary obstruction or infection.

Common Treatment Options

• ESWL: Shock waves are used to break the stone into smaller pieces.

• URS/laser lithotripsy: A thin scope is passed through the urinary tract, and laser energy can break the stone.

• RIRS: A flexible scope is used to reach stones inside the kidney and treat them with laser.

• PCNL: Usually considered for larger or complex kidney stones and involves removing the stone through a small opening in the back.

• Medicines and observation: Smaller stones may sometimes pass naturally and can be managed with medicines, fluids, and monitoring.

When Surgery Be Recommended

A procedure be required when the stone

• Is large or unlikely to pass naturally

• Causes repeated or severe pain

• Blocks urine flow

• Causes recurrent urinary infections

• Causes kidney-related complications

• Does not respond to conservative treatment

HexaHealth notes that laser treatment may be considered for stones that are difficult to pass naturally, including stones causing obstruction or recurrent symptoms.

Which Specialist Should You Consult?

For kidney or urinary stones, you should consult a urologist. A urologist can review your ultrasound/CT scan, determine the stone's exact location and size, and recommend whether medicines, ESWL, URS/RIRS, PCNL, or another procedure is appropriate.

What Reports Should You Carry?

For your consultation, keep

• Ultrasound/USG report

• CT KUB report, if available

• Urine test reports

• Blood test reports, particularly kidney-function tests

• Previous prescriptions

• Previous treatment or surgery records

• List of medicines currently being taken

Do not decide on the type of surgery based only on the stone size. The urologist should assess the complete report and your symptoms before recommending a procedure.

How HexaHealth Can Help

HexaHealth is a healthcare platform, not a hospital. We can help you connect with experienced urologists and suitable partner hospitals for kidney stone treatment. We can also assist with consultation, appointment booking, diagnostic coordination, hospital admission and treatment planning.

If you share your city and your latest ultrasound/CT report, we can help you understand which specialist and treatment pathway would be appropriate.

Wishing you and your family good health always.
Warm regards,
Team HexaHealth