Can kidney stones be removed without a cut?
Many can. Small stones often pass with medicines and fluids. URS and RIRS remove stones through the natural urinary passage using a thin scope and laser, with no external cut.
RIRS or PCNL — which one do I need?
It depends mainly on the size, position and hardness of the stone and on your kidney anatomy. RIRS is usually chosen for kidney stones up to about 2 cm; PCNL is generally preferred for larger or complex stones. The choice is made after reviewing your CT scan.
Why do I need a stent before RIRS?
Not everyone does. A stent placed about 2 weeks before RIRS is advised when the ureter is too narrow for the scope to pass safely, when a stone is blocking an infected kidney, or to relieve severe pain or strain on the kidney. It widens the ureter gently and makes the main surgery safer and smoother.
How long is the stent kept before RIRS?
Usually about 2 weeks. If it was placed for an infection, RIRS is done once the infection has been treated and the urine is clear.
Will I need a DJ stent after the surgery too?
Often, yes, after URS, RIRS or PCNL — it lets urine drain while the ureter heals. It is removed in the OPD by flexible cystoscopy on the advised date.
How soon can I go back to work?
Most people return to desk work within a few days after URS or RIRS, and in one to two weeks after PCNL. Heavy physical work may need longer — this depends on the procedure and your recovery.
Do stones come back?
They can — in about half of patients within 5–10 years without prevention. Enough fluids, less salt, normal calcium intake and follow-up scans lower the risk.
What does stone treatment cost?
Costs depend on the procedure, stone size and hospital stay. You will get an estimate after the consultation and tests. For current charges, WhatsApp the clinic at +91 81328 57130.
Am I a high-risk stone former?
You may be if you have had more than one stone, your first stone was in childhood, a close relative has stones, you have one kidney, stones in both kidneys, or conditions such as gout, diabetes, bowel disease or a parathyroid problem. High-risk stone formers need a full metabolic evaluation including 24-hour urine tests.
What is a 24-hour urine test for stones?
You collect all your urine for 24 hours on your usual diet. The lab measures volume, calcium, oxalate, citrate, uric acid, sodium, magnesium and pH. The results show why you are forming stones so prevention can be targeted. Usually two collections are done, about 3–4 weeks after a stone episode or surgery.
Why is stone analysis important?
Different stones need different prevention. Calcium oxalate, uric acid, infection and cystine stones are each prevented in a different way — so knowing the type is the first step.
Can uric acid stones dissolve without surgery?
Often, yes. Making the urine less acidic with medicine (potassium citrate) and drinking plenty can dissolve many uric acid stones, provided the kidney is not blocked or infected.
Should I stop milk and curd to prevent stones?
No. Normal amounts of calcium from milk, curd and paneer, taken with meals, actually lower the risk of calcium oxalate stones. Calcium supplements are different and should be taken only if advised.
A DJ (JJ) stent — a soft tube with one curl in the kidney and one in the bladder, holding the ureter open.