How Many Days Is a Urinary Catheter Required After Holmium Laser Lithotripsy

Minimally invasive stone removal procedures, particularly laser lithotripsy, have become a popular choice in modern urology. Holmium laser technology is widely used in the field of urology due to its precision and effectiveness. Common procedures include percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), ureteroscopic holmium laser lithotripsy, and flexible ureteroscopic laser lithotripsy.

These procedures, especially ureteroscopic and flexible ureteroscopic holmium laser surgeries, are performed through natural body channels, minimizing trauma and speeding up recovery. After such surgeries, a DJ stent is typically placed to ensure proper drainage and healing. Patients usually have a urinary catheter for about two days post-operation. Once the urine becomes clear, the catheter can be removed, and patients may be discharged shortly afterward. The internal DJ stent, however, is generally removed about a month after the surgery.

In contrast, percutaneous nephrolithotomy requires a small incision through the back to access the kidney. This method also uses the holmium laser for stone fragmentation. Patients undergoing PCNL usually stay in the hospital for about a week before discharge. The urinary catheter may remain in place for up to a week, depending on the clarity of the urine drainage. Similar to other procedures, the DJ stent is typically removed one month after the surgery.

These recovery timelines can vary depending on individual patient conditions and the complexity of the procedure. Always follow your urologist's specific post-operative instructions for the best outcome.