Kidney stones are hard accumulations of salts & minerals of the body in the urinary collecting system and are a prevalent problem for many individuals. Stones that are small < 5mm can often pass away on their own. Most stones remaining in the system tend to grow in size and might need surgical intervention to be removed. Nowadays, doctors are opting for laser operation for kidney stone removal due to its effective results and ease.
Here are some common signs and symptoms of kidney stones:
1. Sharp and Fluctuating Pain: The pain can abruptly and intensely occur in the back, side, lower abdomen, or groin area, with its intensity fluctuating periodically.
2. Painful Urination: Discomfort or pain while urinating.
3. Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate more often than usual.
4. Blood in Urine: Pink, red, or brown urine due to blood.
5. Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine: Changes in urine color and odour.
6. Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick and vomiting due to pain.
7. Fever and Chills: Infections may lead to fever and chills.
8. Painful Groin: Pain radiating from the back to the groin area.
Laser Operation for Kidney Stones:
Laser Operation for removing kidney stones is technically termed RIRS (Retrograde Intra Renal Surgery) is a process that employs a laser to remove stones from the kidney and urinary tract. The stones are fragmented by the laser. Small stone fragments are picked up by the surgeons and others pass spontaneously through the side of the stent. There is no need for incisions because the scope is passed through the voiding passage only. The doctors assess and inspect the patient and the position of the stone. Surgery can be required to get rid of the stone, relying on its location, type, size, nature, and other aspects. Surgery is advised in large renal stones, stones causing severe pain not responding to analgesics, stones impacted in the ureter, or kidney function is adversely impacted by the stone. Laser surgery provides the least invasive way to treat complex stone problems.
Patients are fully informed of the procedures when they go to the doctor with problems related to kidney stones. Additionally, the experts give all the essential details and directions regarding laser operation.
- The following is a list of common suggestions provided to patients before surgery.
- For those who smoke frequently, it is advised that they cease it a few days before their surgery.
- Regular medications taken by the patient are reviewed and few medications may be withheld on the day of surgery
- The procedure is done under general anaesthesia and minimum of 6 hours of fasting is recommended.
Benefits associated with kidney stone removal method by laser:-
- Hard stones can be fragmented using Laser.
- Doesn’t involve cuts or holes in the body.
- One-day hospital stay and short recovery period to get back to normal daily activities.
- Large and small kidney stones both can be eliminated by employing the kidney stone laser treatment.
- Stone-free rates are much higher with Laser lithotripsy when compared to US-shock-wave lithotripsy.
Postoperative care following a kidney stone laser operation, as advised by a urologist:
After a laser operation for kidney stones is performed by a urologist, postoperative care is essential for a smooth recovery. This includes managing pain with prescribed medications, maintaining proper hydration to flush out stone fragments, and adhering to activity restrictions to avoid strain on the surgical area. Regular follow-up appointments with the urologist are crucial for monitoring healing progress and addressing any concerns. Dietary adjustments may be recommended to prevent new stone formation and support healing. If a ureteral stent was placed, caring for it properly and being vigilant for signs of infection or discomfort is important. Any unusual symptoms or complications should be promptly reported to the urologist for appropriate guidance and intervention.
The success rate of laser operation for kidney stone removal is 96%. The World of Urology is a great place to consult if you have a kidney stone and want to get a laser procedure in Bangalore. The WOU-affiliated Dr. Shakir Tabrez is a proficient consultant specializing in Urology, Uro-Oncology, Andrology, Kidney Transplant, and Robotic Surgery with 17 years of surgical experience. He is a trailblazer in the field of 3D laparoscopic urology and Advanced Upper tract endoscopic surgery. Book your appointment and get the best treatment for kidney stones.
