Anesthesia & Preparation
Access with Ureteroscope
Visualization & Fragmentation
Stone Clearance
Recovery
When is kidney stone removal surgery necessary?
Kidney stone removal surgery becomes necessary when a stone is too large to pass on its own with a typical size of 1 cm or above. A kidney stone blocks urine flow and causes unbearable pain and urine infection.
At what size does a kidney stone require surgery?
A kidney stone of the size 1 cm and above would typically need surgery for removal. Stones between 0.5 cm and 1 cm may need surgical intervention if they block urine flow or cause severe pain.
Can kidney stones pass naturally without surgery?
Yes, it is possible for kidney stones to pass naturally without needing surgery, provided they are small enough to pass through the urinary tract. If active surveillance does not work, surgical intervention may be necessary based on the stone’s size, location, and severity of symptoms.
What are the different types of kidney stone removal procedures?
Sohana Hospital Mohali offers all procedures and surgeries for kidney stone removal including Ureteroscopy (URS), Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and latest advanced RIRS Kidney Stone Removal Surgery for complex cases. The best suited kidney stone surgery is decided by the kidney stone removal surgeon based on the size of the stone, location and pre-existing medical condition of the patient.
Which kidney stone removal procedure is the best?
The right choice depends entirely on the size, location, and hardness of the stone, as well as your overall health. Urologists match the treatment to the specific stone to get the best result.
Is kidney stone removal surgery painful?
Kidney stone removal is generally not considered a painful procedure and most patients only experience mild discomfort for a day or two. However recovery varies from patient to patient and some may experience mild to moderate pain during recovery as the body heals, the stone fragments pass through urine and the stent is removed.
How long does kidney stone removal surgery take?
Kidney stone surgery can take anywhere up to 4 hours depending on the location, stone size and overall condition of the patient. Ureteroscopy can take up to 3 hours while PCNL and RIRS Surgery takes 2 hours.
Is kidney stone removal surgery performed under anesthesia?
Yes, generally a kidney stone removal surgery is performed under anesthesia so the patients don't feel pain during the surgery. Depending on the specific procedure local, general and spinal anaesthesia is used for the kidney stone removal process.
How long does it take to recover from kidney stone surgery?
Recovery after kidney stone surgery is usually quick and painless. Most patients return to regular routine activities within 2-3 days with basic precautions such as avoiding heavy lifting, taking prescribed medication, and watching out for high fever or infection.
Can I go home on the same day after kidney stone surgery?
While going home the same day is technically possible, taking a discharge the following day is actually a much better option for patient comfort as the first 24 hours can bring sudden bladder spasms or nausea from the anesthesia. If patients plan to stay overnight, the nursing team gives IV medications to keep the patient comfortable and pain free through the night.
Will I need a stent after kidney stone removal surgery?
Yes, a temporary ureteral stent called a DJ stent is placed after kidney stone removal surgery. A stent is put to keep the urinary passage open which prevents kidney swelling, blocked urine flow and also helps the body pass tiny fragments of stones or blood clots.
How long does a kidney stent stay in after surgery?
A kidney stent remains in the body for up to a few days weeks after kidney stone surgery. Most standard post-operative stents are removed after 1 to 2 weeks once the ureter has healed.
What are the risks and complications of kidney stone surgery?
Kidney stone surgeries are fairly simple and uncomplicated involving very few risks. Common post operative issues include bleeding, urinary tract infections, pain or blockage from residual stone fragments. RIRS Kidney Stone Surgery is generally considered a very safe and successful procedure.
What can I eat and drink after kidney stone removal surgery?
There are certain precautions to be taken after kidney stone removal surgery including consuming fibre rich meals, a balanced diet and drinking 2.5 to 3 liters of water everyday to prevent further stone formation.
How soon can I return to work after kidney stone surgery?
Most patients return to normal non strenuous work within 2-3 days of kidney stone surgery with light walking and routine activities with the exception of lifting heavy weights. Complete recovery could take up to 2-3 weeks but may vary depending on the patient’s overall health.
What is the success rate of kidney stone removal surgery?
RIRS Kidney stone surgery is a highly fail-proof and successful surgery for small to mid sized stones. These modern and minimally invasive techniques allow urologists to clear most stones effectively in one single sitting without pain, scars or long hospital stays for patients.