Hospitalization Requirements for Kidney Stone Removal Surgery

Most kidney stone removal procedures require hospitalization, especially for traditional open surgery, percutaneous nephroscope surgery, and ureteroscopic laser surgery. Open surgery involves general anesthesia and significant physical trauma, making hospitalization essential for proper care and monitoring.

In the case of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), a small incision is made near the lower back to access the kidney. This method can cause internal trauma, and without proper hospital observation, patients may face risks such as post-operative bleeding or infection.

Ureteroscopic procedures also require anesthesia and post-surgery monitoring. Since these surgeries are performed under anesthesia, patients must stay in the hospital for the procedure. After surgery, medical staff will monitor for signs of infection, bleeding, or fever. Some patients may experience delayed bleeding or mild fever, and in rare cases, more severe complications like infection or shock can occur. Therefore, it is standard practice to keep patients under observation for a short period after laser lithotripsy to ensure there are no complications such as bleeding or infection.

For smaller stones treated with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), many patients can return home the same day. However, follow-up appointments are still necessary to monitor for delayed complications such as internal bleeding, blockage, or worsening obstruction.

In summary, open surgery, percutaneous nephroscope surgery, and flexible ureteroscopy all require hospital stays. The length of stay varies depending on the procedure: ureteroscopic laser surgery typically requires 2–3 days, PCNL usually requires 5–7 days, and traditional open surgery may require up to 10 days of hospitalization.

Proper hospitalization ensures patient safety and allows for timely intervention should complications arise. Always consult with a urologist to understand the best treatment and hospitalization plan for your specific condition.