Treatment of Stone Disease
Stone disease is a very common clinical condition, and in recent years, the incidence of urinary tract stones has been increasing, making it a widespread health concern that significantly affects overall well-being. When it comes to treating kidney stones, the approach largely depends on the size of the stone.
For smaller stones, especially those under 0.6cm, non-invasive treatments such as increased fluid intake and medication may be sufficient to help pass the stones naturally.
However, when dealing with larger stones, such as those greater than 2cm, more advanced medical procedures may be necessary.
In such cases, urologists often recommend ureteroscopy or percutaneous nephrolithotomy as effective treatment options. These methods allow doctors to remove or break up the stones using specialized instruments.
Ureteroscopy involves passing a thin scope through the urethra and bladder into the ureter to locate and remove the stone. On the other hand, percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a minimally invasive procedure where a small incision is made in the back to access the kidney and remove the stone directly.
These procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia and have high success rates when managed by experienced professionals. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment play a crucial role in preventing complications and improving patient outcomes.