Kidney Stone Management

Treatment depends on the size, location and composition of the stone, kidney function and symptoms.

Small stones often pass with hydration and medication; larger or obstructing stones may need a procedure.

• Symptomatic kidney or ureteric stones
• Recurrent stone formers
• Obstruction with infection

• Ultrasound or non-contrast CT
• Blood and urine tests
• Stone analysis after passage or removal

• Medical expulsive therapy for small stones
• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)
• Ureteroscopy with laser (URSL / RIRS)
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for large stones

• Share imaging showing stone size and location
• Review medications, especially blood thinners
• Treat urinary infection before surgery if present

1–3 days in hospital depending on the procedure

• Short recovery for most endoscopic procedures
• Stent removal may be required after a few weeks
• Lifestyle and hydration advice to prevent recurrence

• Bleeding, infection or ureteric injury
• Residual fragments needing further treatment
• Stent-related discomfort

No procedure is risk-free and no clinic can guarantee outcomes. Risks and expected benefits are discussed with the treating specialist before any decision.