Do All Kidney Stones Require Surgery?
Kidney stones are notorious for causing severe pain, but not every case requires surgery. Dr. Aakil Khan, a Consultant Urologist at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, emphasizes that the approach to treatment largely depends on the size, location, and symptoms associated with the stones.
According to Dr. Khan, some stones are so small that they can pass through urine naturally, often causing minimal discomfort. In contrast, larger stones may block the urinary tract or cause significant pain, requiring medical intervention. “Surgery becomes necessary when stones are too large, recurrent, or pose a threat to kidney function,” he explains.
Understanding the severity of the symptoms is crucial. Repeated urinary infections, unbearable pain, or signs of kidney obstruction play vital roles in determining the treatment plan. “Our priority is to avoid surgery when possible,” Dr. Khan states, “but we must act swiftly when kidney health is at risk.”
For small stones, simple home remedies can be surprisingly effective. Dr. Khan notes that most small stones will pass naturally with adequate hydration and patience. However, when a stone grows large enough to cause intense pain or obstruct urine flow, surgical options may be necessary.
Fortunately, advances in medical technology have made treatment options less invasive and more efficient. Techniques like laser lithotripsy and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) are now standard procedures that utilize energy bursts to break down larger stones into smaller pieces that can exit the body naturally. “These procedures require minimal or no incisions, allowing patients to recover quickly,” Dr. Khan adds.
Typically, patients may leave the hospital within a day or two post-procedure, thanks to the low-risk nature of these treatments. The goal is not just to eliminate the stone but also to preserve long-term kidney health. “Knowing when to intervene and when to wait is the real art of treatment,” Dr. Khan concludes.
In summary, while kidney stones can be incredibly painful, panic is unnecessary. The majority can be effectively managed with increased fluid intake, medications, and dietary adjustments, with only a small percentage requiring surgical intervention. Understanding your condition and timely action are key factors in ensuring healthy kidney function.
