Kidney Stones

Understanding, Diagnosing, and Treating Kidney Stones

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are solid masses formed from crystals in the kidneys. These stones can vary in size and may cause significant pain and urinary problems if they obstruct the urinary tract. At our urology clinic, we specialize in the accurate diagnosis, advanced treatment, and long-term prevention of kidney stones.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones form when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up urine—such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid—leading to crystal formation. Over time, these crystals can grow into stones that may stay in the kidney or travel through the urinary tract.

Types of Kidney Stones:

• Calcium stones (most common)

• Uric acid stones

• Struvite stones (often related to infections)

• Cystine stones (rare and genetic)
  
  

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

• Severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs

• Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin

• Pain during urination

• Blood in the urine (hematuria)

• Nausea and vomiting

• Frequent urination or urgent need to urinate
  
  

Diagnosis

We use advanced imaging techniques such as:

• CT scan (non-contrast helical CT)

• Ultrasound

• X-rays (KUB)

• Urine and blood tests to assess kidney function and stone composition
  
  

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size, location, and composition of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms.

1. Conservative Management

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to help pass the stone naturally

• Pain Management: Prescription or over-the-counter medications

• Medical Expulsion Therapy: Alpha-blockers to relax the ureter and facilitate stone passage
  
  

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): Non-invasive procedure using shock waves to break up stones

• Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy: A small scope is inserted through the urethra to reach and break up or remove stones

• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Minimally invasive surgical removal of large or complex kidney stones through a small incision in the back
  
  

3. Surgical Intervention In rare cases where stones are very large or associated with anatomical abnormalities, traditional surgery may be necessary.

Prevention & Follow-Up

We focus not only on treating kidney stones but also on preventing recurrence:

• Metabolic evaluation to identify underlying causes

• Dietary counseling and lifestyle modifications

• Long-term management plans tailored to individual risk factors