Modern methods of removing kidney stones

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Dr. Vladimir Stepanov, a urologist and andrology specialist, points out that a rise in the number of cases of kidney stones is currently observed in most countries. When can it be removed without surgical intervention?

According to him, the occurrence of kidney stones is linked to a diet that relies mainly on meat and dairy products, and men of all ages suffer from this condition more than women.

He says: “When the stone is small, the issue is usually treated with medications. However, there are cases that doctors encounter in which the stone is large and requires immediate removal with surgery.”

Speaking about the modern methods used to remove kidney stones by breaking them up, the specialist points out that the method of using laser, compressed air, or ultrasound allows for breaking up and crushing the stones, turning them into fine sand, and removing them from the urinary tract effectively.

He says: “When breaking up stones with compressed air, a special device is used to break up and crush them, and then they are carefully removed using an endoscopic annular probe. But this method cannot be used when the stones are very hard because it is not always effective and may cause complications.”

As for the ultrasound method, it is usually used to remove stones that are not solid and have a density of less than 800 HU (on the Hounsfield scale). Under the influence of the high-frequency vibrations of the probe, the stones break up and turn into dust, which exits the body through the urinary tract naturally.

He says: "But one of the most effective methods for removing kidney stones, which is widely used, is laser lithotripsy, or what is called 'flexible endoscopy'. The use of this method is widespread for several reasons."

First: It is a general method, as the thulium laser can be used to fragment large stones, regardless of their location in the kidney or bladder.

Second: The high power of the laser beam allows for the fragmentation of solid stones and avoids the risk of their migration to other parts of the urinary system.

Third: The ability to carefully remove stones from any location without making an incision or hole.

In general, only the specialist doctor decides the best way to remove kidney stones based on the patient's condition.