Which Department Should You Visit for Kidney Stone Examination?

If you suspect you have kidney stones, the best department to visit is the Urology Department. Urologists specialize in diagnosing and treating urinary tract stones, including kidney stones, bladder stones, and ureteral stones. In larger hospitals, there may even be a specialized stone clinic that focuses specifically on stone-related conditions. However, these specialized clinics are still part of the urology department, so choosing general urology is always a safe option.

In some cases, small stones or specific types of stones, such as uric acid stones caused by gout, may be managed by an endocrinologist or a nephrologist. These specialists can provide non-surgical, medical management for smaller stones through medication and dietary adjustments. If the stone is less than 1 cm in size and not causing severe symptoms, conservative treatment under the care of an internal medicine specialist may be sufficient.

However, for stones larger than 1 cm or those causing pain, infection, or blockage, it is highly recommended to consult a urologist. These cases often require interventional treatment, such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), ureteroscopy, or even surgical removal. After an initial diagnosis at a stone clinic or urology department, doctors will assess the size, location, and composition of the stone to determine whether surgery or continued medical therapy is the better option.

In summary, while some specialized cases may involve other departments, the primary and most appropriate choice for kidney stone examination and treatment remains the Urology Department.