Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) are hard objects formed from chemicals in the kidneys. Once formed, the stone may remain in the kidney or travel down the urinary tract. To remove it, you might need kidney stone surgery.

Kidney Stone Surgery Procedure

Generally, kidney stones can be treated without surgery. Your doctor may prescribe medications and recommend drinking more water to help pass the stone. 

However, if the stone is too large or causes a urinary tract infection, surgery may be necessary. There are three types of surgeries commonly performed for kidney stones:

1. Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL)

This procedure uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to locate the kidney stone. Once located, shock waves are sent to break the stone into small fragments so it can pass with urine. 

You may need several SWL sessions to completely treat the stone. Pain relief medication is usually provided before the procedure, as it can cause discomfort.

2. Ureteroscopy (URS)

This procedure is done under general anesthesia, so you will be unconscious during the process. It involves inserting a long, thin telescope (ureteroscope) through the urethra (urinary tract). 

The ureteroscope is advanced to the bladder or ureter (the thin tube connecting the bladder and kidney) to locate the stone. 

If the stone is small, the doctor will remove it using a special basket. If the stone is larger than the ureter's diameter, it is first broken up using a laser and then removed.

3. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)

This surgical procedure uses a small telescopic instrument called a nephroscope. To insert the nephroscope into the kidney, the surgeon makes a small incision in your back. 

Depending on the condition of the stone, it may be removed directly or broken into smaller pieces using a laser or pneumatic energy. 

You will be under general anesthesia during the PCNL procedure, so it will not be painful.

4. Open Surgery

Open surgery is now rarely performed to treat kidney stones. This procedure might be offered by your doctor only if your kidney stone is very large and cannot be broken down using other treatments.

During this procedure, you will be under general anesthesia. First, an incision will be made on the side of your body to give the doctor access to your kidney. 

The doctor will then remove the kidney stone through this incision. During the procedure, a stent (small tube) will be placed to help with urine drainage.

Aftercare Treatment

Aftercare depends on the surgery procedure you underwent. Here are the general recommendations your surgeon may provide:

• Take pain relievers as prescribed.
• Complete the full course of antibiotics to prevent infection.
• Drink plenty of water to help flush out any remaining stone fragments.
• You may notice a small amount of blood in your urine, which is generally normal. Contact your doctor immediately if there is a significant amount of blood.
• If a stent was placed, your doctor will typically remove it during your first follow-up appointment.

Recovery Time

The recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure performed. Here are the typical recovery periods before your doctor allows you to resume activities:

• Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL). Rest at home for 1-2 days.
• Ureteroscopy (URS). Rest at home for 5-7 days.
• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Stay in the hospital for 1-4 nights, followed by 2-3 weeks of rest at home.
• Open Surgery. Stay in the hospital for 6-9 days, followed by 4-6 weeks of rest at home.

Risks of Kidney Stone Surgery

The risk of complications is higher if you have large kidney stones. Doctors usually explain the risks of complications before you decide to undergo surgery. 

Potential complications of kidney stone surgery include:

• Sepsis, a blood-borne infection.
• Ureteral blockage by stone fragments.
• Injury to the ureter.
• Urinary tract infection.
• Bleeding during surgery.
• Pain.

However, you do not need to hesitate to undergo kidney stone surgery. The benefits typically outweigh the risks, as untreated kidney stones increase the risk of chronic kidney disease.

Additionally, individuals who have had kidney stones are 50% more likely to develop another stone within 5-7 years. 

Therefore, it is crucial to have regular check-ups and take preventive measures to prevent the recurrence of kidney stones.

If you have concerns related to kidney stones and seek proper treatment, you can schedule a consultation with Bali International Hospital (BIH). 

This international-standard hospital is located in Indonesia's first Health Special Economic Zone (SEZ), known as The Sanur. 

BIH offers comprehensive services, including diagnosis, treatment, long-term care, psychological and nutritional support, and patient education programs.

With professional healthcare staff, cutting edge medical technology, world-class services, and top-notch facilities, your journey to health will be safer, more effective, and more comfortable.