kidney stone laparoscopy operation - #17116
I am trying to figure out if I need to go through this kidney stone laparoscopy operation or not. Crazy story, just last week, I’ve been having this intense pain and thought I was having back issues, couldn't even sit in my chair at work without squirming. After a trip to the ER, the doc told me I have a pretty big kidney stone. They suggested a kidney stone laparoscopy operation, but I kinda freaked out. I mean, do I really need an operation for a stone? My brother had one years ago and he said it was the worst pain of his life, but they didn't do a laparoscopy on him since his stone passed naturally. I'm wondering, is this kidney stone laparoscopy operation the best route? Are there less invasive options? I've read online that some people had success with laser treatments too. What should I be asking my urologist before deciding? How do I know if my case is one of those where a kidney stone laparoscopy operation is absolutely necessary? Feeling really overwhelmed with all this info and scared of the surgery.
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Doctors’ responses
Hi aradhya
There are many minimally invasive options for renal stones
These include RIRS , PCNL, ECIRS etc.
But firstly we need to know your stone burden and stone location by help of NCCT KUB
DR NIKHIL CHAUHAN urologist
You’re right to weigh all your options when it comes to dealing with a kidney stone. The choice whether to go ahead with a kidney stone laparoscopy operation primarily depends on several factors: the size and location of the stone, any complications, your symptoms, and your overall health. Laparoscopy may indeed be suggested for larger stones or when other less invasive treatments haven’t been effective, or if the stone’s causing complications such as infection or renal function issues. Typically, stones smaller than 5 mm might pass on their own; hydration and pain management would be the usual advice. However, with stones larger than 10 mm, as seems to be your case given the suggestion of surgery, passing them naturally or through less invasive treatments could be challenging. You mentioned laser treatments, which are indeed another option like extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) or ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy. These are less invasive compared to laparoscopy and have worked well in many cases, but they might not be suitable for all stone locations and sizes. Your next visit with the urologist should include discussing the specifics of your stone: its size, exact location, and why an operation was advised over other treatments. Ask about the success rates and risks associated with each option, including whether any might offer a quicker recovery or lower risk of complications. Understanding these can help make an informed decision. Also inquire about any new imaging or diagnostic tests needed to reassess the stone before finalizing the choice. If possible, consider getting a second opinion, especially if you’re feeling uneasy about the procedure’s necessity. Not to forget, ensuring you’re coping alright with the pain and maintaining a healthy fluid intake is essential, regardless of the path you choose. Remember to promptly report if you experience any red flag symptoms like fever, chills, severe nausea, or signs of potential infection, as these would necessitate immediate medical attention.
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