Kidney stone laser - #12088
I am worried about this kidney stone laser procedure I keep hearing about. A couple weeks ago, I had this intense pain in my lower back and abdomen that I thought was just muscle strain or something. Went to the ER, and turns out, yep, kidney stones! The doctor suggested using this kidney stone laser thing to break them up but I don’t really know what that means. I mean, how does this kidney stone laser work exactly? I read that it’s super common and didn't seem too invasive, but I can’t shake this feeling of anxiety. Are there side effects? My friend had this done and she said it was a walk in the park, but I’m just not feeling that chill about it. They say this kidney stone laser can get rid of the stones pretty efficiently, but what if it doesn't work for me? I'm also worried about the recovery. I heard stories where people still felt pain afterward. Whew, it's just overwhelming. Anyone here had this procedure? Any tips or thoughts on what to expect with the kidney stone laser?
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
The procedure you’re referring to is likely called laser lithotripsy, which is a commonly used technique for breaking down kidney stones into smaller, passable pieces. In laser lithotripsy, a flexible scope (called a ureteroscopy) is passed through the urethra and bladder to reach the ureter or kidney where the stone is located. The laser fiber is then used to fragment the stone into very small pieces. This makes it easier to pass naturally or allows them to be removed entirely during the procedure. It’s considered quite effective and is less invasive than traditional surgery with a relatively quick recovery time. Regarding side effects, while generally safe, you might experience some discomfort, such as mild pain or a burning sensation when urinating, which typically resolves in a few days. There’s also a chance of infection, bleeding, or a small piece of stone not being fully removed, which might require additional procedures. However, these complications are relatively rare. Not every patient will respond the same way, but many patients find significant relief. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s post-procedure instructions, like staying hydrated and possibly taking prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics to mitigate any discomfort or risk of infection. If the stones are completely broken up and pass without obstruction, recovery should be straightforward. However, should you notice severe pain, fever, or an inability to urinate, these could indicate complications like infection or blockage, and you’d need to seek medical attention immediately. In summary, it’s a relatively routine procedure with good outcomes for most individuals, and ongoing dialogue with your healthcare provider can address specific concerns based on the size, location of the stone, and your overall health.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.