Doctors for Kidney Stone Treatment in Hyderabad

Kidney stones are solid masses that form in the kidneys due to the accumulation of minerals and salts. These stones can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball and can cause severe pain as they pass through the urinary tract. The formation of kidney stones is often a result of dehydration or a diet high in salt and protein.

Symptoms of kidney stones include intense pain in the back, side, or groin, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty urinating. If left untreated, kidney stones can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage or infection.

The treatment options for kidney stones depend on the size, location, and type of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms. Typically it can be done through surgical and non-surgical approaches;

• 1. Non-surgical approaches: These are generally used for smaller stones that can be passed naturally or treated with non-invasive methods. Non-surgical approaches are often preferred because they involve less risk and shorter recovery time compared to surgical approaches. Your urologist will recommend the best approach based on the size, location, and type of stone, as well as your individual health needs.
1. 1.A. Observation and monitoring - For small stones, the urologist may advise observation and monitoring of the stone's progression without intervention. In this case, the patient is advised to drink plenty of fluids and take medication to manage pain and discomfort.
2. 1.B. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) - ESWL is a non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure that uses focused shock waves to fragment kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be easily excreted through the urinary tract without any surgical incisions. This treatment is usually recommended for small to medium-sized stones that are located in the kidney or upper ureter.
3. 1.C. Ureteroscopy - Ureteroscopy is a modern, minimally invasive procedure that is executed by inserting a small, flexible scope through the urethra into the ureter to locate the stone. The procedure allows the urologist to visualize the stone and either extract it or disintegrate it into smaller fragments with the help of laser energy. Ureteroscopy has evolved to become an effective and safe option for treating various types of kidney stones, with a high success rate and minimal complications.
• 2. Surgical approaches: These are typically used for larger stones that cannot be treated with non-surgical approaches, or for stones that have caused damage to the urinary tract. Your urologist may recommend a surgical approach if other treatments have been unsuccessful in removing the stone.
1. 2.A. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) - Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a meticulous surgical intervention that entails a tiny incision at the back to allow entry of a scope to effectively locate and extract the kidney stone. This treatment is generally reserved for more extensive stones that are not treatable by either ESWL or ureteroscopy.
2. 2.B. Open Surgery - Open surgery is rarely used for kidney stone treatment and is only recommended in very rare cases when all other treatment options have been exhausted. This surgery involves making an incision in the back to remove the stone.

Large kidney stones that are unable to pass through the urinary tract naturally often necessitate surgical intervention. In such instances, the surgical approach may involve a procedure known as percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) or ureteroscopy. Both methods involve the insertion of a small scope into the urinary tract to locate and extract the stone. In severe cases where other methods have failed, a surgical incision in the back may be required for stone removal. Here are some health conditions that may require a surgical intervention;

• Relief from Pain and Discomfort: Stones that are causing severe pain, discomfort, or difficulty urinating may also require surgical intervention. This holds particularly valid if alternative therapies, such as pharmacological intervention or lithotripsy, have not yielded desired outcomes. In these cases, surgery can provide relief by removing the stone and alleviating the associated symptoms.
• Obstruction of Urinary Tract: Stones that are obstructing the kidney's ability to pass urine onto the bladder can cause significant damage to the urinary tract and may require surgical removal. This is particularly true if the stone is causing an obstruction that cannot be relieved through other means.
• Prevention of Organ Damage: Stones that are causing damage to the kidney or other organs may also require surgical intervention. If left untreated, these stones can lead to kidney damage or other complications, making surgery a necessary option to prevent further damage.
• Treatment of Infection: Stones that are linked to fever or an infection may require surgical removal to treat the underlying infection. In such cases, surgical intervention can be a lifesaving option for the patient.
• Challenging Stones: Stones that keep coming back or don't respond to previous treatments may require surgical intervention. Additionally, stones that are located in a challenging location, such as the lower pole of the kidney or the ureteropelvic junction, may require surgical removal due to the difficulty in accessing and removing them through other means.

Before performing surgery for kidney stones, a thorough diagnosis and testing process is necessary to determine the size, location, and number of stones. The following are some of the tests and procedures used for diagnosing kidney stones;

• Abdominal Ultrasound: This non-invasive test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the kidney and urinary tract. This non-invasive and expeditious diagnostic test can help identify the size, shape, and location of the stones.
• X-ray: A radiologic imaging technique, X-ray, can be used to detect the presence of stones in the urinary tract and kidneys. However, it may not be able to identify all types of stones.
• Urinalysis: Urinalysis is a diagnostic test that assesses the physical and chemical properties of a urine sample, including the presence of blood, crystals, or infection, which are potential markers of kidney stones.
• CT Scan: The test results can be useful in identifying the type and severity of the stones. However, a more comprehensive and precise imaging test, such as computed tomography (CT) scan, is often necessary to accurately locate and determine the size and number of the stones.
• Blood Test: A blood test can help determine the levels of certain substances in the blood that can indicate the presence of kidney stones, such as calcium, uric acid, and creatinine.
• Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine Test: These tests help evaluate kidney function and determine whether surgery is safe for the patient.
• MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the kidneys and urinary tract. This test may be used in some cases to obtain additional information about the stones and the surrounding tissues.

Kidney stone surgery, also known as lithotripsy or stone removal surgery, is a common urological procedure performed to remove kidney stones from the urinary tract. Surgery for kidney stones can be performed using a variety of techniques, such as ureteroscopy, shock wave lithotripsy (SWL), and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). The size and placement of the stone, the patient's medical history, and their general health will all influence which operation is chosen.

• Preparation
1. In order to prepare for the surgery, the patient will be given instructions that may involve fasting for a predetermined amount of time.
2. Certain drugs or nutritional supplements that can interfere with anesthesia or impact blood coagulation may need to be stopped by the patient.
3. Any allergies, illnesses, or prescription drugs must be disclosed to the surgeon by the patient.
• Anesthesia
1. The patient's general health, the size and location of the kidney stone, and the surgeon's preferences will all have an impact on the type of anesthesia employed.
2. A patient may get either regional anesthesia, which numbs the lower half of the body, or general anesthesia, which puts the patient to sleep.
3. Throughout the procedure, the anesthesiologist will keep an eye on the patient's vital signs.
• Procedure
1. Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL): This method involves the external application of high-intensity shock waves to the kidney stone. The stone is fragmented by the shock waves so that it can exit the body through the urine. It is effective for stones up to 2 cm in size and is considered a minimally invasive procedure.
2. Ureteroscopy: A thin, flexible scope is passed into the urethra and into the bladder and ureter during this surgery. The stone is cut into smaller pieces using a laser so that they can be removed or permitted to exit the body through the urine. It is effective for stones in the lower ureter and is considered a minimally invasive procedure.
3. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A small incision is made in the back during this treatment, and a tube is then placed right into the kidney. The stone is broken apart with a laser or another tool before being extracted through the tube. It works well for bigger stones or those that are situated in challenging kidney locations.
4. Postoperative Care: Patients will be observed in the recovery area following kidney stone surgery before being moved to a hospital room or being sent home. To treat pain and stop infection, doctors may prescribe antibiotics and painkillers. In order to help flush out any residual stone fragments, patients might also be recommended to consume plenty of fluids. Based on the type of treatment done and the patient's particular needs, the urologist will give detailed postoperative recommendations.
• Recovery
1. After the procedure, the patient will be observed in a recovery room for a while.
2. To treat pain and stop infection, doctors may prescribe antibiotics and painkillers.
3. The patient may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two after the procedure, depending on their overall health and the complexity of the surgery.
4. For a few weeks, the patient must relax and refrain from physically demanding activities as the incision heals.
5. To track the patient's progress and make sure the kidney stone has received all necessary treatment, follow-up consultations will be set up.

When various forms of treatment have failed to relieve a condition, surgery is frequently advised. Here are the benefits of kidney stone surgery;

• Quick relief from pain and discomfort: Surgery is the most effective way to remove large kidney stones that are causing severe pain and discomfort. Patients often get instant symptom relief after having the stones removed.
• Prevents further damage: If kidney stones are not addressed, they can harm the kidneys, bladder, and urinary system. Surgery can stop more harm from occurring and lower the chance of problems.
• Improves kidney function: Urine flow obstructions and kidney damage are also possible effects of kidney stones. Surgery can help improve kidney function by removing the blockage and allowing urine to flow freely.
• Minimally invasive: Most kidney stone surgeries are minimally invasive and can be done using small incisions. This means less pain, scarring, and a quicker recovery time.
• Prevents recurrence: Surgery can assist in eliminating all the stones and preventing future recurrence. This is especially important for patients who are prone to developing kidney stones.
• High success rates: Kidney stone surgery has a high success rate and is considered a safe and effective treatment option for patients with kidney stones.

While complications from kidney stones surgery are not common, it is important to be aware of the possible risks before undergoing the operation. Here are the common side effects associated with kidney stones operation in Hyderabad;

• Pain and discomfort: Following the surgery, it is common to experience some degree of pain and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications prescribed by your doctor.
• Infection: The risk of infection is there throughout any surgical procedure, including kidney stone removal surgery. Antibiotics can be used to treat any fever, chills, or pain the patient may have at the incision site.
• Bleeding: During and after the procedure, there is a chance of bleeding, which could lead to blood in the urine. Patients may occasionally need blood transfusions.
• Urinary Tract Injuries: Kidney stones surgery may cause damage to the urinary tract, resulting in difficulty urinating or blood in the urine. This complication is usually managed with a temporary urinary catheter.
• Anesthesia side-effects: Anesthesia used for the surgery may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache.
• Respiratory issues: Rarely, general anesthesia can cause respiratory complications such as pneumonia or lung damage.

After undergoing treatment for kidney stones, it is natural for patients to wonder how long it will take to recover. The length of recovery will depend on the type of therapy used, the size and location of the kidney stones, and the patient's general health. Generally, patients can expect to spend a few days in the hospital after a surgical procedure and several weeks to months for complete recovery.

To aid in the recovery process, patients can take certain steps to ensure their bodies heal properly and quickly. Here are some guidelines to follow;

• Pain Management: During the healing process, patients could feel some discomfort or pain. To control this pain, medication will be recommended.
• Hydration: Water in particular should be consumed in large quantities to assist flush out any leftover stone fragments and stop the development of new stones.
• Diet: Following a diet low in sodium, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods is recommended to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. A dietician can assist in developing a meal plan that is customized to the needs of the patient.
• Physical activity: It is essential to avoid strenuous physical activity and lifting heavy objects for several weeks after the procedure. As they start to feel better, patients should gradually raise their activity levels.
• Follow-up appointments: Patients should show up for all of their urologist's scheduled follow-up sessions in order to track the healing process and make sure no issues develop.
• Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle adjustments, such as giving up smoking, consuming less alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help prevent kidney stones from recurring.