Kidney Stone Treatment Methods | Op. Dr. Nureddin Çelik

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard formations that develop when minerals in the urine crystallise and accumulate. Their size can range from a grain of sand to a golf ball, and they can cause severe pain.

Signs and Symptoms

Severe flank pain (renal colic)
Blood in the urine (haematuria)
Nausea and vomiting
Frequent urination
Burning sensation while urinating
Pain in the lower abdomen
Darkening of the urine
Fever and chills (if infection is present)

Treatment Methods

ESWL (Lithotripsy)

Stone fragmentation with shock waves from outside the body
For stones smaller than 2 cm
Requires no anaesthesia
Takes 30–45 minutes
Outpatient treatment

Ureteroscopy (URS)

Stone fragmentation via the urinary tract
With laser lithotripsy
Under general anaesthesia
A one-hour procedure
One-day hospital stay

PNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy)

Access to the kidney through a small incision in the back
For large stones (over 2–3 cm)
Requires general anaesthesia
1–2 day hospital stay
High success rate

Preventing Stone Formation

Important: Measures that can be taken after treatment to prevent stones from forming again:

Drinking 2–3 litres of water per day
Limiting salt intake
Reducing animal protein
Lemonade (thanks to its citrate content)
Regular exercise

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do while passing a kidney stone?

Drink plenty of water, take a painkiller and have a warm shower. If the pain becomes unbearable or you develop a fever, seek medical attention immediately.

Is lithotripsy painful?

ESWL may cause mild discomfort but usually does not require painkillers. Other methods are performed under anaesthesia.

Why is stone analysis important?

Knowing the chemical composition of the stone is critical in determining the measures to take to prevent recurrence.

Would You Like to Learn More About Kidney Stone Treatment?

Let's evaluate the most suitable treatment plan for you together.

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