Overview
Several methods used to treat kidney stones that don’t pass naturally.
General Information
- Organ involved: Kidney or ureter
- Purpose: Remove or break stones
- Duration: Depends on method
- Hospital stay: 1–2 days or outpatient
- Anesthesia: Varies
- Recovery: 1–3 weeks
Types
- ESWL: Shock waves
- PCNL: Direct removal (for large stones)
- TUL: Endoscopic (ureteral stones)
Before Surgery
- Blood and urine tests
- Imaging
- Hydration and fasting