Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidneys from minerals and waste products in the urine. Many kidney stones are small enough to pass naturally through the urinary tract, but larger stones can become lodged in the kidneys or ureters and may require medical treatment. When stones cause severe pain, block the flow of urine, lead to repeated infections, or grow too large to pass on their own, surgical treatment may be recommended.

Several procedures are available to safely remove or break up kidney stones. The most appropriate option depends on factors such as the size and location of the stone, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s overall health. A healthcare provider can evaluate your condition and recommend the treatment best suited to your situation.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are solid masses formed from substances such as calcium, oxalate, or other waste products found in urine. They often begin as tiny crystals that gradually grow as more minerals accumulate. While small stones may pass without medical intervention, larger stones can cause significant pain and complications.

Symptoms of kidney stones may include severe flank or abdominal pain, blood in the urine, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty urinating. In some cases, stones can block urine flow or lead to urinary tract infections, which may require prompt treatment.

Common Surgical Treatments for Kidney Stones

Several surgical and minimally invasive procedures are commonly used to treat kidney stones.

Ureteroscopy
Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat stones located in the ureters or kidneys. During the procedure, a thin, flexible scope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter to locate the stone. The stone may be removed using a small basket or broken into smaller pieces with a laser. Because no external incision is required, recovery is typically quick and many patients return home the same day. In some cases, a temporary ureteral stent may be placed to help urine flow from the kidney to the bladder during healing.

Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL)
Shock wave lithotripsy uses targeted sound waves to break kidney stones into smaller fragments that can pass naturally through the urinary tract. This noninvasive treatment is often recommended for smaller stones and usually does not require surgical incisions.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is typically recommended for larger kidney stones or when other treatments have not been successful. During this procedure, a small incision is made in the back or side to access the kidney directly. A thin scope is inserted through a tube to locate and remove the stone or break it into smaller pieces using specialized instruments. This procedure is usually performed under anesthesia and may require a short hospital stay.

Open Surgery
Open surgery for kidney stones is rarely needed today but may be considered in complex cases where other treatments are not effective or the stone is extremely large. This procedure involves making an incision to access the kidney and remove the stone directly. Because it is more invasive, recovery time is generally longer.

Choosing the Right Procedure

The most appropriate treatment for kidney stones depends on several factors, including the stone’s size, location, and composition, as well as your overall health and medical history. Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms, imaging results, and treatment goals to help determine the best approach.

Discussing your options with a physician allows you to understand the benefits, potential risks, and recovery expectations associated with each procedure so you can make an informed decision about your care.