Renal and Ureteral Stone Surgical Treatments Available at SHRC:
1. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
This minimally invasive procedure is often used for large kidney stones that cannot be treated through other methods. PCNL involves:
A small incision is made in the back to access the kidney.
A nephoscopes is inserted to break up and remove the stones.
PCNL is highly effective for large, complex stones, with shorter recovery times compared to traditional surgery.
2. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
ESWL is a non-invasive procedure commonly used for smaller kidney and ureteral stones. High-energy shock waves are directed toward the stones to break them into smaller fragments that can be easily passed through the urinary tract. This procedure is ideal for stones that are not too large or in difficult-to-reach locations.
3. Ureteroscopy and Laser Lithotripsy
Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove stones located in the ureters (the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder). It involves:
A small, flexible camera (ureteroscope) is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the ureter.
Laser lithotripsy is used to break down the stones into smaller fragments, which can be removed or passed naturally.
Ureteroscopy is ideal for stones that are lodged in the lower or middle ureter.
4. Open Surgery for Large Stones
In rare cases, when stones are extremely large or located in a way that cannot be reached with less invasive methods, open surgery may be required. This procedure involves:
A larger incision in the abdominal or back area to directly access and remove the stones.
While more invasive, open surgery is sometimes necessary for certain complex stone cases.
5. Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (Mini-PCNL)
Mini-PCNL is a more advanced version of the traditional PCNL. It is used for medium-sized kidney stones and offers benefits such as:
Smaller incisions and a reduced risk of complications.
Faster recovery and less postoperative discomfort compared to traditional methods.
Ideal for stones that are too large for ESWL but not as complex as those treated with standard PCNL.
6. Stent Placement and Stone Fragmentation
After a stone is broken into smaller pieces, a stent may be placed temporarily in the ureter to ensure that the fragments are passed smoothly from the kidney to the bladder. The stent helps relieve any potential blockages and reduces the risk of infection.