is kidney stone operation dangerous - #14600
I am really worried about this, so I just had a painful experience that brought me here. A week ago, I was rushed to the ER with terrible back pain and sharp pains in my side. After some tests, they told me I have kidney stones. I’ve been trying to manage the pain, but it just keeps coming back, and they mentioned that an operation might be needed if it doesn’t pass on its own. My friends keep telling me that kidney stones are common, but when I hear “operation,” a million questions pop into my head. Is kidney stone operation dangerous? I mean, I’ve read some stuff online about complications after surgery, and it freaks me out. Are there serious risks or side effects that I should be aware of? Like, what are the chances something could go wrong during or after? I know some people have had it done and say it was okay, but how do I really know? It's just so hard to think about, and I feel like I’m stuck in this loop of worry. I just want to feel normal again and not have to deal with all this pain. Is kidney stone operation really as scary as it sounds, or do you think I’d be okay? Any insights would be super helpful!
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Doctors’ responses
Kidney stone operations, while understandably concerning, are generally safe and commonly performed. The most frequently used procedures include shock wave lithotripsy (SWL), ureteroscopy, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). These operations are typically recommended when stones don’t pass on their own, are causing severe symptoms, or pose risk of complications like infection or kidney damage.
Shock wave lithotripsy is non-invasive, using high-energy sound waves to break stones into smaller pieces that can be passed more easily. It’s relatively low-risk; however, there can be minor side effects like bruising, bleeding, or discomfort. Ureteroscopy involves passing a thin scope through the urethra and bladder to the stone, sometimes using a laser to fragment it; risks include bleeding, infection, or injury, but these are low in experienced hands. PCNL is more invasive, usually for larger stones, involving small incisions to remove stones directly from the kidney; while more complex, significant complications are not common in healthy individuals.
Overall, the risk of serious complications from any of these procedures is low, particularly when performed by skilled specialists in a medical setting. Most people experience relief of symptoms and can return to normal activities relatively soon after recovery. It’s natural to feel apprehensive, but discussing your specific situation with your healthcare provider can provide a clearer understanding of potential risks based on your health condition, stone size, location, and overall medical history. Ensure all your questions are addressed, and weigh the benefits of relief and preventing future complications against the rare potential risks.
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