Kidney Stone Removal Procedures
There are four methods for kidney stone removal surgery, chosen based on the stone’s size, number, and location. These treatments are recommended when medications prove ineffective against kidney stones. The various surgical methods for kidney stone removal include:
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL):
The patient receives spinal anesthesia from the doctor before the procedure, but it can also be performed without anesthesia based on the patient’s preference. The patient lies on a water-bed cushion, with the fluid acting as a protective medium between the lithotripter machine and surrounding tissues, preventing damage to nearby organs. Once the stone’s location is determined, the surgeon releases a series of precise, high-energy shock waves that fracture the renal stones into smaller fragments.
The broken stone pieces are expelled from the body through urine. Shockwave lithotripsy involves no cuts or stitches, leading to a quicker recovery. ESWL is generally not recommended for large kidney stones, as multiple sessions may be necessary for complete fragmentation. In the case of a large stone, the surgeon may opt to insert a ureteral stent to alleviate pain during the expulsion of the stone.
Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy (URSL):
The procedure commences after the patient receives spinal or general anesthesia. The surgeon inserts a slender, elongated fiber-optic ureteroscope into the ureteral passage through the urethra. The precise location of the stones is achieved through external X-rays and imaging tests.
Once the stone is pinpointed, it is either fragmented into smaller pieces using a laser or removed intact. The broken stone fragments are gathered in a stone basket and extracted from the body. The remaining stone remnants are subsequently flushed out through urine. To aid in the expulsion of stones, the surgeon may employ ureteral stents. These stents widen the ureteral passage, facilitating the smoother passage of stone fragments through the ureter and out of the body.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS):
Before the procedure, the patient receives either spinal or general anesthesia. Once sedated, the surgeon utilizes a long, thin, flexible endoscope, inserting it into the urethral passage to access the portion of the kidneys where urine is collected.
Precision is crucial in Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS), prompting the surgeon to utilize X-rays and image screening for real-time visualization of the kidneys on an external screen. The endoscope is retrogradely moved toward the kidneys, targeting the location of the stone. Upon reaching the desired spot, the surgeon employs an advanced holmium laser to break down stubborn stones into smaller fragments without harming surrounding organs. The resulting stone fragments are collected in a basket, which is then removed. Alternatively, intact stones can be extracted using small forceps.
To facilitate stone passage, the surgeon may insert stents, and flexible hollow tubes extending from the kidneys to the ureter. These stents enlarge the ureteral passage, aiding the smooth expulsion of stone fragments from the body. Ureteral stents are removed once the stones are completely flushed out, typically within 10 to 14 days under normal circumstances. Moreover, advancements in medical tools and equipment, such as wires, ureteral access sheaths, and stone containers, contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of the RIRS procedure.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL):
Following the administration of anesthesia, the surgeon creates a small incision in the lower back’s flank area. Through this incision, a thin and flexible nephroscope is inserted under X-ray guidance to visualize the stones and precisely determine their location. Subsequently, a thin needle may be employed to access the kidney’s urine collecting system, carefully dilating the route with the assistance of a guidewire, ensuring safe access for the nephroscope.
Once the stones are identified, the surgeon has the option to either break them into smaller pieces or remove them intact using microforceps. In certain instances, DJ stenting may be necessary to facilitate the flushing out of stone fragments through urine. Ureteral stents, thin and hollow tubes inserted through the urethral opening to reach the kidneys, may be retained for approximately 10-14 days, depending on the duration required for complete stone expulsion from the body.
Benefits of kidney stone laser treatment
Laser treatment for kidney stones presents numerous advantages compared to traditional methods. This approach allows for the elimination of kidney stones without the necessity for incisions or stitches. Dr. Saurabh Jain employs advanced holmium lasers for kidney stone removal in India, enabling specialists to achieve precise and shallow penetration, effectively treating stones without causing harm to surrounding tissues. Considering these factors, here are the benefits of kidney stone laser treatment:
- No cuts or incisions (excluding PCNL, which involves tiny incisions)
- Minimal blood loss (excluding ESWL, which involves no blood loss)
- Absence of visible scars
- Minimal pain
- Accelerated recovery
- Reduced hospital stays
- Prompt return to daily routine
- Almost zero chances of complications
- Low chances of recurrence
Post-Kidney Stone Procedure Recovery
Recovery is a vital component of laser treatment for kidney stones. Most procedures are outpatient, requiring less than a day of hospitalization. Patients typically return to work within a week after surgery, facilitated by the absence of cuts and stitches that allow for minimal strain on the lower body. Here are some recovery guidelines following kidney stone treatment:
- Maintain hydration throughout the day.
- Steer clear of spicy foods for at least two months post-surgery.
- Avoid foods high in animal proteins known to cause kidney stones.
- Encourage minimal physical activities that don’t strain the lower body.
- Refrain from excessive physical exertion, particularly activities that strain the abdomen.
- If stents are in place, avoid engaging in extensive exercise or outdoor sports.
Selecting Dr. Saurabh Jain for Kidney Stone Laser Treatment in Jaipur offers several compelling reasons:
- Expertise: Dr. Saurabh Jain is a highly skilled and experienced specialist in the field of kidney stone laser treatment. His expertise ensures that patients receive top-notch care and effective treatment.
- USFDA-Approved Technology: Dr. Jain employs advanced USFDA-approved holmium lasers for kidney stone removal. This cutting-edge technology enhances the precision and success of the treatment.
- Faster Recovery: The use of laser technology minimizes the need for incisions or stitches, leading to a faster and smoother recovery process for patients.
- Comprehensive Care: Dr. Saurabh Jain provides comprehensive care throughout the treatment process, from accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment plans and attentive post-operative care.
- Proven Track Record: Dr. Saurabh Jain has a proven track record of successful kidney stone treatments, earning the trust and confidence of patients seeking effective and reliable care.
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