How to Know if a Kidney Stone Has Been Passed

After undergoing extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or medication-assisted stone removal, it is important to determine whether the stone has been successfully expelled from the body. One of the most common methods used in clinical practice is imaging evaluation, with ultrasound being a popular and effective choice.

Ultrasound is frequently used for monitoring kidney stones, as it is non-invasive and provides real-time results. For stones located in the kidneys, ultrasound can often detect their presence or absence with good accuracy. However, when it comes to stones in the mid-portion of the ureter, ultrasound may not always provide a clear image.

In such cases, X-ray imaging may be recommended to assess the stone's passage. Although X-ray offers a more precise view of the urinary tract and stone location, it does come with the drawback of radiation exposure.

CT scans are considered the gold standard for stone evaluation due to their high accuracy in detecting even small stones and confirming whether they have been passed. Doctors often rely on CT imaging when a definitive diagnosis is needed, especially in complex cases or when symptoms persist despite treatment.

In summary, a combination of ultrasound, X-ray, and CT imaging can be used to effectively monitor and confirm the passage of kidney stones, with each method offering its own advantages depending on the clinical situation.