Kidney stones develop due to an accumulation of excess salts and minerals in the kidneys. These organs play a crucial role in eliminating waste and fluids from the body through urine. When the concentration of waste surpasses that of fluids, it leads to the formation of solid masses known as kidney stones. While some individuals may not experience any discomfort, others may endure varying degrees of pain.
If these stones travel to the ureter, patients may endure sudden and intense pain in the lower back, potentially leading to severe complications. Kidney stones can range in size, from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball.
Diagnosis of Kidney Stones
The urologists at Swanand Kidney Clinic are highly experienced in conducting a thorough diagnosis of kidney stones. The diagnosis may include a physical examination, in which the doctor will ask about your medical history and current medication if you are taking any. However, to detect the underlying cause, the doctor would recommend a few diagnostic tests:
- Blood test – A blood test can reveal the amount of uric acid or calcium in your body. The test can also help evaluate the health of your kidneys and decide upon the necessary treatment. Imaging tests – Ultrasound, X-ray, and CT scan are usually done to confirm the existence and size of the kidney stones.
- Urine test- The urine culture is mostly recommended to detect the level of infection in the body.
4 Methods for Kidney Stone Removal:
After the results of the diagnosis, the doctor will initiate and advise the best-suited kidney stone treatment according to the condition.
- ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) – It uses shock waves to break the kidney stone into small pieces that can move through the urinary tract pass from the body.
- Lithotripsy (Ureteroscopy) – In this, the ureteroscope is passed through the urethra and into the ureter to remove a stone using laser energy.
- RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) – It is a procedure for doing surgery within the kidney using a flexible ureteroscope to remove the upper ureter and small kidney stones.
- PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy) – This is a minimally invasive procedure in which large kidney stones are removed through a small incision in the skin.
Swanand Kidney Clinic in Bhosari, Pune offers state-of-the-art kidney stone treatment in Bhosari using the latest technologies like laser lithotripsy, PCNL, and ESWL. Book your appointment today!
