Kidney Stone Removal
Overview
Kidney stone removal is performed to treat stones that form in the urinary system and cause pain, blockage, or infection. If you are advised to have this procedure, it is usually because the stone is unlikely to pass on its own or is causing significant symptoms.
There are different ways to remove or break down stones, depending on their size and location. These procedures are commonly performed and are designed to relieve pain, clear the blockage, and prevent further complications.
When It's Needed
You may need kidney stone removal if you have:
- Severe or persistent pain from a kidney stone
- A stone that is too large to pass naturally
- Blockage affecting urine flow
- Recurrent stones or complications
How It's Performed
The procedure is usually performed under general or regional anaesthesia. It may involve:
- Breaking the stone into smaller pieces using specialised techniques
- Passing instruments through the urinary tract to remove the stone
- Using imaging guidance to locate and treat the stone
No external cuts are required in many cases, depending on the method used. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours and is often performed as a day or short-stay procedure, depending on the complexity.
What to Expect
Recovery
Recovery depends on the type of procedure performed. You may experience mild discomfort or notice small stone fragments passing after treatment.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Your care team will guide you on hydration, recovery, and follow-up to help prevent recurrence.
Diagnostics & Tests
Before the procedure, your condition may be assessed using:
These help determine the size, location, and type of stone.
Support Services
You may receive support such as:
Call our 24/7 emergency line immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain, fever, or signs of infection after the procedure
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding or sudden swelling