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Patient Information for Treatment of Kidney Stones |
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Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hardened crystal clusters that can develop in the urinary system. They usually form because there is a breakdown in the balance of liquids and solids in the urine. The kidneys must keep the right amount of water in the body so they remove minerals and other materials that the body cannot use. If this balance is disturbed, kidneys can become overloaded with substances (usually small crystals) that won’t dissolve in water. Crystals begin to stick together and slowly add layer upon layer to form a stone. A kidney stone may grow for months or even years before it causes a problem. Experts suggest that age, diet, climate, infections and inherited disorders are some possible causes of kidney stones.
Treatment of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones may be treated in different ways depending on their size, location and composition. Although kidney stones, especially calcium stones, are very hard, most of the 30% that do not pass out of the body on their own can be broken up and eliminated without surgery. A process called lithotripsy (from the Greek word for “stone crushing”) breaks stones into fragments. Other treatments for kidney stones include medication therapy, ureteral stents, ureterosocopy, percutaneous lithotripsy or open surgery. Your urologist will discuss the treatment that is best for you.
Pre-Treatment
Once it has been determined that lithotripsy treatment is the best choice for you, the urologist will be ordering pre-procedure testing which will consist of blood tests and possibly an EKG. Your urologist will make an appointment for you to have your lithotripsy procedure at a hospital or facility near you. You may receive other instructions from that facility which will help you prepare for the day of your procedure. Typically, you will be instructed to make arrangements for someone to drive you home, since it is not advisable for patients to drive themselves home after the treatment.
What To Expect
Generally speaking, the following takes place:
An X-ray will be taken to determine the location of your kidney stone.
You will receive sedation or an appropriate anesthetic as directed by your urologist. You will be positioned on the lithotripter. Using fluoroscopy, your urologist along with the radiological technologist will target the exact location of your kidney stone. Multiple shock waves will then fragment the kidney stone into small sand-like particles.
Following treatment, you will be taken to a recovery area to be observed before you are discharged.
After Treatment
When you are ready to go home, you will receive instructions which should be followed carefully. Some patients may experience discomfort as the particles pass through the ureter. Pain relieving medication may be prescribed by your urologist, if needed. Stone fragments will pass more quickly if you drink extra fluids. You may notice blood in your urine or bruising and tenderness in the area that was treated; this is normal and will subside in several days. Call your urologist if you have any questions or concerns.
Additional information about Kidney Disease can be found at the following link: National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases
Disclaimer: The New Jersey Kidney Stone Center, LLC does not warranty information provided by any other web site. Consult your physician for specific medical questions. |
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New Jersey Kidney Stone Center, LLC |
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New Jersey Kidney Stone Center, LLC |
