What should I know about kidney stone surgery?

Dear Biren Tailor Ji,

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys and can cause significant discomfort. Understanding the options for stone surgery near the kidney is important for effective treatment.

Understanding Kidney Stone Surgery

Kidney stone surgery is typically considered when stones are too large to pass naturally, cause severe pain, block urine flow, or lead to recurrent infections or kidney damage. The aim is to remove or break down the stones so they can be passed out of the body.

Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones

• Severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs (flank pain)
• Pain that spreads to the lower abdomen and groin
• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Pink, red, or brown urine (due to blood)
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent urge to urinate

Surgical Treatment Options for Kidney Stones

There are several effective surgical procedures available, depending on the size, location, and type of your kidney stone :

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) : This non-invasive procedure uses shock waves to break kidney stones into tiny pieces that can then be passed in your urine. It's often suitable for smaller to medium-sized stones.
• Ureteroscopy (URS) : For stones in the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder) or kidney, a thin, flexible scope is inserted through the urethra and bladder up to the ureter. The stone can then be retrieved with a small basket or broken with a laser.
• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) : This is typically recommended for very large or complex kidney stones. A small incision is made in your back, and a tube is inserted directly into the kidney. A scope is then used to remove the stone or break it into smaller pieces for extraction.

Benefits of Kidney Stone Surgery (with HexaHealth)

• Effective Stone Removal : Modern surgical techniques offer high success rates in clearing stones.
• Pain Relief : Eliminating stones can provide significant relief from severe pain and discomfort.
• Prevention of Complications : Surgery helps prevent kidney damage, infections, and urinary blockage.
• Minimal Invasive Options : Many procedures are minimally invasive, leading to faster recovery times and less post-operative pain.

Important Considerations Post-Surgery

• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as advised by your doctor, to help flush out any remaining stone fragments.
• Follow your doctor's dietary recommendations, which might include reducing sodium, animal protein, or certain oxalate-rich foods, depending on the type of stone.
• Take all prescribed medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, as directed.
• Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure no new stones are forming.

When to Consult a Doctor Immediately (Alarming Symptoms)

• High fever (above 100.4°F or 38°C) or chills after the procedure.
• Severe or worsening pain that isn't relieved by medication.
• Significant blood in your urine, especially if it includes large clots.
• Difficulty urinating or inability to urinate.

How HexaHealth Can Assist You

At HexaHealth, we understand that navigating medical procedures can be challenging. We can help you with

• Expert Consultation : Connecting you with top urologists and nephrologists specializing in kidney stone treatment.
• Hospital Selection : Guiding you to the best hospitals in your area for advanced kidney stone surgery.
• Financial Support : Assisting you with understanding insurance coverage and eligibility for government schemes like Ayushman Bharat to make your treatment more affordable.
• Seamless Experience : From appointment booking to post-operative care, we support you at every step of your treatment journey.

We are here to help you make informed decisions and ensure you receive the best care for your kidney stone condition. Please feel free to reach out to us if you need further assistance.

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