Kidney stones are solid, pebble-like formations in the kidneys. They can happen to anyone, but some factors increase the risk, like family history, dehydration, or certain diets.

These painful stones can block the urinary tract, leading to severe pain and complications. Kidney stones treatment becomes necessary when stones cause unbearable pain, infection, or obstruct urine flow.

Regular hydration and a balanced diet can help prevent kidney stones, ensuring a stone-free and comfortable life. If you’ve already developed kidney stones you may wonder, can they removed without surgery?

This is what this article is all about. It explores some of the best options you have for kidney stones treatment. Keep reading!

How can I Remove Kidney Stones without Surgery?

Kidney stones can be excruciating, but surgery isn’t always the first option. There are several effective non-surgical treatments available, offering relief and stone removal. Here are the five most effective methods;

1. Hydration and Wait-and-See Approach: One of the simplest yet effective kidney stones treatment methods is drinking plenty of water. This encourages the stones to pass naturally through the urinary tract. Adequate hydration dilutes urine and makes it less likely for crystals to form or existing stones to grow. Depending on the size and location of the stone, you may need to wait patiently for it to pass. Don’t panic though, your doctor will monitor your progress through pain management and imaging.
2. Medications: When your stone is small and unlikely to pass on its own, medications can provide valuable assistance. Alpha-blockers, such as tamsulosin, can be prescribed. They work by relaxing the muscles in your ureter. This makes it easier for the stone to move and ultimately pass out. Also, pain relievers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed. These medications can help manage the discomfort that often accompanies the passage of kidney stones.

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): ESWL is a widely employed non-invasive procedure. It entails the use of shock waves to break the kidney stone into smaller fragments, allowing them to pass more easily through your urinary tract. While it’s less invasive than traditional surgery, it’s essential to note that ESWL may not be suitable for everyone, particularly for larger stones or those with specific compositions that resist fragmentation.

1. Ureteroscopy (URS): For stones located in the ureter or kidney, ureteroscopy (URS) provides a minimally invasive solution. During this procedure, a thin, flexible scope is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the stone’s location. Once located, the stone can be broken down or removed using tiny instruments. This method is particularly effective for stones situated in challenging locations and can handle larger stones compared to ESWL.
2. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a more invasive option among non-surgical treatments. It is typically reserved for large or complex stones that may not respond to other non-invasive treatments. During PCNL, a small incision is made in your back, and a tube is inserted directly into the kidney to access and remove or break down the stone. While recovery may take a bit longer compared to less invasive treatments, PCNL remains a crucial option when dealing with challenging kidney stone cases.

Every case is different. So, it’s best to consult with a urologist if you’re considering kidney stones treatment. If you dread surgery, they can help you to determine the most suitable non-surgical approach for your specific case.

To assess your suitability for some treatments, some of the things they will consider include the size, and location of the kidney stones. They will also want to check the composition of the kidney stone, as well as your overall health.

These are the key factors that will influence the treatment decision. In addition to these treatments, there are lifestyle adjustments that can help prevent kidney stones in the future.

For example, your doctor may recommend drinking plenty of water. Incidentally, this remains a key factor for kidney stones treatment and management.

Also, you may want to reduce the intake of foods high in oxalates. Examples of foods in this category include; spinach and beets.

Importantly, moderating salt intake can also lower the risk of stone formation. And most importantly, dietary calcium intake should not be excessively restricted. This is because, it can help bind oxalates in the digestive tract and prevent them from reaching the kidneys.

When is Surgery Recommended for Kidney Stones?

Surgery becomes a crucial consideration in the management of kidney stones, primarily when stones are large, posing significant challenges to natural passage or causing severe symptoms. Here are three instances when your doctor may recommend surgery for kidney stones treatment;

• Stone Size and Location: The size of a kidney stone plays a pivotal role in determining the need for surgery. Stones that measure 0.5 centimeters (5 millimeters) or larger are less likely to pass naturally through the urinary tract. The larger the stone, the more daunting the obstruction it presents. Moreover, the stone’s location within the urinary system matters. If a stone is lodged in a critical or hard-to-reach spot, surgery may be the safest and most efficient way to remove it.
• Failure of Conservative Management: Conservative management involves non-invasive methods like pain management, hydration, and medications to aid in the natural passage of smaller stones. However, if these measures prove ineffective, and the patient continues to experience excruciating pain, infection, or kidney damage, surgery may be the next logical step. Persistent symptoms despite conservative treatment indicate the necessity of a more direct intervention to alleviate the patient’s suffering and prevent complications.
• Complications and Risk Factors: Certain complications associated with kidney stones may also warrant surgical intervention. For instance, if a stone leads to recurrent urinary tract infections that don’t respond to antibiotics, surgical removal may be imperative to clear the infection source. Also, stones causing kidney damage or urinary tract blockages may require surgical removal to prevent long-term harm to the kidneys.

Modern surgical techniques for kidney stone removal are minimally invasive and highly effective. Also, you will be guided on how to prepare for surgery and take care of yourself post treatment. So, you don’t have to worry much about surgery for kidney stones treatment.

It’s a Wrap!

Kidney stones don’t always necessitate surgery. There are effective non-surgical options that offer effective alternatives.

But the choice of treatment depends on various factors. So, consult a urologist for personalized guidance. To schedule an appointment with a specialist for kidney stones treatment in Singapore, you can call or visit us at;

Aare Urocare – One-Stop Incontinence Centre | Dr Fiona Wu | Kidney Stones Removal | UTI Vaccine Singapore

6 Napier Road #10-06 Gleneagles Medical Centre,

Singapore 258499

+656252 4681

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