Kidney stones are solid masses formed within the urinary system. Therefore, the earlier the intervention, the quicker the patient's treatment and recovery.

Kidney stones are a common issue that many patients struggle with, causing significant pain. This condition occurs across all age groups.

Kidney stone surgery is the procedure in which stones crystallized in the kidneys are removed using a specific method. This surgery refers to the surgical treatment of stones in the kidneys or ureters (the urinary channel connecting the kidneys and bladder). The primary goal of the surgery is to remove the stones from the kidneys or ureters.

Types of Kidney Stone Surgery

Kidney stone surgeries, like many other types of surgery, can be performed both openly and minimally invasively. However, with technological advancements and the increased experience with minimally invasive surgeries, open surgery is now rarely used.

Open surgery may be preferred in cases where the stone is excessively large, as it might require a longer anesthesia time, which could be harmful to the patient.

Among the minimally invasive surgeries, one option is Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PNL, PCNL), and the other is Flexible Ureterorenoscopy (RIRC). Sometimes, these two surgeries might need to be performed simultaneously, and this combined procedure is called Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery (ECIRS).

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy involves making a small incision in the back with the help of X-rays or ultrasound, inserting a video camera to reach the kidney and stones, and breaking the stone into smaller pieces to remove them.

Flexible Ureterorenoscopy uses a flexible ureterorenoscope to access the furthest corners of the kidneys and break down the stones using a laser, turning them into sand. This method causes minimal cosmetic disruption and is the most preferred due to its lower risks, especially in patients with kidney dysfunction or those using blood-thinning medications.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy results in a tiny, around 1 cm, incision, leaving minimal cosmetic damage and carrying a low risk of bleeding.

How Is Kidney Stone Surgery Performed in Izmir?

Treatment Details:

• Procedure: A camera is inserted through the back to remove stones from the kidneys.
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Hospital Stay: 1-2 days
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia
• Recovery Time: 1-2 days
• Return to Work/School: 7-10 days
• Wound Scarring: Minimal
• Pain Duration: 24-48 hours

The kidneys play a vital role in human health. Thus, any kidney-related issues affect the entire body. Kidney stone surgery involves removing stones from the kidneys using a predefined method.

Considering the size of the stone, kidney stone surgery is usually performed minimally invasively. Globally, endoscopic surgical methods are applied rather than open surgery.

The procedure is performed by accessing the kidneys through a small incision made on the patient's back.

What You Need to Know About Kidney Stone Surgery

• ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy): This procedure uses shockwaves from outside the body to break down kidney stones, especially those that are not too large.
• Kidney stones are generally made of salts and minerals.
• Most kidney stone surgeries today are treated using minimally invasive methods, such as Perkutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PNL) or Ureterorenoscopy.
• Stones in the kidneys are broken using ultrasonic or pneumatic devices, while laser technology is used when accessed via the natural urinary tract.
• Kidney stones can cause severe pain, particularly when they move into the ureters. Painkillers may be given before surgery to manage discomfort.
• Risks: Your doctor will assess whether surgery is appropriate based on your condition. Risks include high fever, urinary tract infection, bleeding in the urine, injury to the ureter, and incomplete stone removal.
• Post-surgery Care: If post-surgery care is not appropriately managed, infections or complications such as wound infections may occur, which could delay recovery.

Drinking plenty of water before and after the surgery is important to facilitate easier passage of stones.

You should regularly visit your doctor before and after surgery since there is a risk of new stones forming in the future. Medications, like potassium citrate, are commonly used to prevent stone formation. It’s important to avoid alcohol and consume safe foods to prevent kidney strain.

Sexual Activity After Kidney Stone Surgery

After kidney stone surgery, it’s important to follow your surgeon's specific instructions regarding sexual activity. Typically, it is advised to refrain from sexual activity for at least one to two weeks to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications like bleeding or infection.

It’s crucial to communicate with your partner and avoid uncomfortable positions. When returning to sexual activity, pay attention to your body’s signals and avoid movements that cause discomfort.

Cost of Kidney Stone Surgery in Izmir

The cost of kidney stone surgery varies depending on factors such as the type of surgery, the size of the stone, the surgeon's expertise, and the hospital. To get detailed information about the cost of kidney stone surgery in Izmir, you can consult a specialized doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Kidney Stone Surgery Take?
Kidney stone removal via endoscopic methods typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the stone. Larger or multiple stones may take longer.

Is Kidney Stone Surgery Risky?
Like any surgery, kidney stone surgery carries risks. These include fever, urinary tract infections, bleeding, injury to the ureter, and incomplete stone removal. Patients should be informed of these risks before the surgery.

How Many Days Do I Stay in the Hospital After Kidney Stone Surgery?
With minimal invasive methods, hospitalization is usually required for 1-3 days. Recovery time is significantly shorter compared to traditional open surgery.

How Is a Closed Kidney Stone Surgery Performed?
In closed kidney stone surgery, a camera-equipped endoscopic tool is inserted through the urinary tract, reaching the kidneys where stones are broken and removed using a laser.

How Long Does Recovery Take After Kidney Stone Surgery?
The recovery time is generally short, with most patients able to return to their daily activities after 1-2 days, depending on the type of surgery performed.

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones?
Symptoms include back pain, pain in the lower abdomen, burning during urination, nausea, vomiting, changes in urine color or consistency, and blood in the urine. Immediate medical attention is required if these symptoms occur.

References:
AYDIN, C., Topaktaş, R., AYDIN, Z. B., ALTIN, S., Akkoç, A., Aykaç, A., & Demirel, F. (2014). Seçilmiş böbrek taşı olgularında tamamen tüpsüz perkütan nefrolitotomi. Dicle Tıp Dergisi, 41(2), 298-302.