Kidney Stone Treatment & Stent Insertion
A Guide to Kidney Stone Treatment and Stent Insertion
Laser Treatment of Kidney Stones:
Laser treatment is a cutting-edge procedure that uses focused laser energy to break down kidney stones into smaller fragments, making them easier to pass naturally or remove.
Why is Laser Treatment Done?
Laser treatment may be recommended to:
Treat Kidney Stones: Laser is effective in treating kidney stones that are causing pain, blockage, or recurrent urinary tract infections.
Minimise Invasive Surgery: The procedure is minimally invasive, often avoiding the need for traditional open surgery.
What to Expect Before the Procedure:
Evaluation: Your Urologist will assess your kidney stone(s) through imaging and discuss the procedure's benefits, risks, and alternatives.
Preparation: You may need to avoid eating or drinking before the procedure. Your Urologist will provide specific guidelines.
During the Procedure:
Anaesthesia: Laser treatments are usually performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring you're comfortable throughout the procedure.
Laser Energy: A thin laser fiber is inserted through the urethra and into the urinary tract. The laser energy is used to break down the stone into smaller pieces.
Stone Fragments: The broken stone fragments are either allowed to pass naturally through urine or removed using specialised tools.
Stent Insertion:
A ureteral stent (a soft, flexible tube) is then temporarily placed in the ureter to promote urine flow and prevent potential blockages.
The stent:
Relieves Obstruction: Stents are used to bypass obstructions caused by kidney stones, tumours, or swelling, ensuring urine can flow freely.
Support Healing: After certain urological procedures, stents support healing by preventing the ureter from narrowing.
After the Procedures:
Recovery: After laser treatment, you may experience mild discomfort and blood in urine. Stent insertion might cause some discomfort and urinary frequency. You can learn more on how to manage your stent symptoms by visiting the ‘Stent Symptoms’ page on our website.
Follow Instructions: Your Urologist will provide instructions on how to manage discomfort, care for the stent, and any activity restrictions.
Stent Removal: Stents are usually removed approximately 2-4 weeks post your laser stone treatment. This requires another hospital admission. Your Urologist will discuss this with you ate the time of booking your initial laser stone treatment.
Benefits of Laser Treatment and Stent Insertion:
Minimally Invasive: Laser treatment offers a minimally invasive approach to kidney stone removal, reducing recovery time.
Effective Stone Breakdown: Laser energy efficiently breaks down kidney stones, increasing the chances of successful stone removal.
Improved Urine Flow: Stent insertion promotes normal urine flow and reduces the risk of complications post your laser stone treatment.
Risks and Considerations:
While these procedures are generally safe, potential risks include infection, bleeding, discomfort, ureteric injury and stent-related issues. Your Urologist will discuss these with you beforehand.
For more information or to discuss further schedule an appointment by contacting us on P: 035561 6038
*Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. Always consult your Urologist for personalised guidance.*