How to remove kidneys stones by laser? - #12118
I am really worried about my situation right now. A couple of weeks ago, I had this awful pain in my lower back, and after some tests, my doctor told me I have kidney stones. I didn’t even know what that meant at first until I Googled it and found out they can be really painful. The pain has been horrible, like I feel like something's stabbing me from the inside. I mean, I’ve tried drinking loads of water and even took some meds, but nothing seems to help. Then my doctor mentioned something about how to remove kidneys stones by laser, which I hadn’t heard about before. Like, how does that even work? Is it dangerous? Does it hurt? I asked him if that was the only option, but he said there are different methods. I keep thinking about this laser thing because I just want this over with. What’s recovery like? Do I need to stay in the hospital? I don't even know what I should be doing until then, honestly. Has anyone here dealt with how to remove kidneys stones by laser? What should I expect?
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Doctors’ responses
Laser treatment for kidney stones typically refers to a procedure called laser lithotripsy. It’s quite an effective way to break down kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be passed more easily through your urinary tract. The process involves a thin lighted tube (ureteroscope) inserted through your urethra and bladder into the ureter where the laser then breaks down the stones. It’s an established and commonly used procedure, designed to minimize your discomfort and help resolve the issue more quickly compared to traditional surgical methods. In terms of safety, laser lithotripsy is generally considered safe with a lower risk of complications than more invasive surgeries. It’s performed under general or local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure itself, though experiencing some discomfort afterward is possible as the fragments pass. As for recovery, it’s usually quicker than other surgical methods. Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay. You might experience mild discomfort or blood in the urine for a few days, but it’s generally manageable with pain relievers. Your doctor would provide specific post-op instructions, including drinking plenty of water to help flush out stone fragments and possibly taking medications to facilitate this. Considering your symptoms and how the pain hasn’t been relieved with fluid and medication, it’s reasonable to continue discussing this option with your healthcare provider. Meanwhile, keep up with staying well-hydrated, which you’re already doing. If you develop fever, chills, or severe pain that’s unmanageable, seek immediate medical attention as these could be signs of infection or other complications.
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