Laser Kidney Stone Removal - What to Expect

Kidney stones can be a very painful condition. There are several different methods used to eliminate the them. Among some of the more popular methods is herbal treatments, pain medications with a combination of increasing fluids and dietary modifications.

However, sometimes it is necessary to use more invasive procedures to eliminate the kidney stone in the event it is unable to be passed through other methods. Laser kidney stone removal is one of the more extreme means for assisting in the removal.

For many, just the thought of having any type of surgical procedure done causes them to cringe. However, you might not realize it, but the laser kidney removal process is definitely a lot less painful than dealing with the stomes themselves. The Uteroscopic stone removal is a fairly simple procedure that is going to require you to go under a general anesthetic.

The procedure consists of a surgeon using a uteroscop (small fiber optic utensil) that is inserted through the urethra into the bladder and finally it is inserted into the ureter. Usually in a fairly minimal amount of time the kidney stone is found. Once it is found there will be a shock wave that destroys the kidney stone so it can be either eliminated or passed through urine or removed by another tool during the procedure.

Typically, after the procedure has been completed a portion of the tube that was inserted is left behind. The stent it left so it can induce the body to begin the healing process. Generally, when the stent is left in the body it is because the kidney stone was likely in either the lower or middle portion of the ureter.

Laser removal is virtually painless as the small medical instrument is gently inserted. The procedure begins with the urethra and makes it way into the ureter, which is where the stone should be. You can expect to be given a local anesthetic for this procedure.

Recovery time is minimal, although you will not be able to drive after the procedure due to the anesthesia. The kidney stone is then targeted with the laser and is removed through urine after the procedure. It will either disintegrate upon contact from the laser or it will break down into smaller pieces where it will be passed in the urine.