This article was translated from the original Portuguese. Português
Kidney stones are a common condition affecting millions of people around the world. Fortunately, treatments are available to remove them.
Even with minimally invasive treatments available, many people still do not know about kidney stones and their treatment options. As a result, a significant number of people live with kidney stones without knowing what to do.
Our team of urologists offers state-of-the-art evaluation for all patients who want to find the best individualized treatment plan.
We want to make sure all patients have the information they need to make the best possible decision about their own care!
How long does kidney stone removal surgery take?
The duration of kidney stone removal surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure. In general, the surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia and can last from 30 minutes to 1 hour. However, postoperative recovery time varies according to the patient and the type of anesthesia used.
When is a kidney stone considered large?
A kidney stone is considered large when it is more than 9 mm in diameter. It is important for the stone to be removed, as it can cause severe pain and urinary tract complications.
How much rest is needed after kidney stone surgery?
After kidney stone surgery, the recommended rest period is 2 to 3 days. During this period, it is important to drink plenty of water to help eliminate stone fragments and prevent new ones from forming. It is also important to follow medical instructions to avoid complications.
How much does kidney stone removal surgery cost?
Kidney stone removal surgery generally costs between 10,000 and 30,000 Brazilian reais (R$) (approximate values, including hospital costs), depending on the complexity of the procedure. However, keep in mind that this amount may vary depending on the country where the surgery is performed, as well as on whether or not it is covered by your health insurance plan.
Is kidney stone surgery available through SUS?
Yes, kidney stone surgery is a procedure covered by SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde, Brazil's public health system). However, it is important to note that SUS does not cover all types of surgery. It is therefore important to consult a doctor to find out whether your specific case is covered by SUS.
What causes kidney stones?
Kidney stones are caused by the buildup of crystals in one or both kidneys. These crystals form from chemical substances found in urine, such as uric acid and calcium. When these crystals clump together, they can form a stone. Stone size varies, but some can be very large, filling the entire kidney.
What should you eat after kidney stone removal?
Kidney stones can be extremely painful and sometimes require surgery to be removed.
After surgery, it is important to follow a healthy diet to prevent stones from forming again. Some foods should be avoided, such as those high in sodium and fat, while others are especially recommended to support treatment. Water intake is crucial to keep the kidneys hydrated and reduce the risk of stone formation. Foods such as carrots, beets and pineapple are rich in water and nutrients essential for kidney health. Regular consumption of these foods can help prevent kidney stones from coming back.
When is kidney stone surgery necessary?
Kidney stone surgery is necessary when the stones are too large to be removed with medical treatment. It may also be necessary when the stones are causing severe pain, infection or other problems. The surgery is a relatively simple procedure that usually takes less than an hour. However, in some cases, a more complex procedure requiring an abdominal incision may be needed.
Beyond the stone: a complete urological evaluation
At Clínica Uro Onco, the kidney stone consultation also reviews your urological health as a whole — with a special focus on prevention and early diagnosis of prostate, bladder and kidney cancers:
- PSA and prostate cancer risk;
- blood in the urine and bladder health;
- kidney masses and cysts found on imaging tests.
What are the risks of kidney stone surgery?
Kidney stone surgery is a relatively safe procedure, but like any surgery, it may carry some risks. The most common complications include infection, bleeding and adverse reactions to medications. Rarely, kidney stone surgery can cause damage to nerves or to the internal structures of the kidney. That is why it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor before deciding whether it is the best treatment for you.
Is it possible to pass a 1 cm stone without surgery?
According to the medical literature, it is possible with the use of medications. However, this approach is considered high risk, since the chance of success is low for stones larger than 7 mm, due to the risk of complete blockage of urine flow and bacterial infection of the kidney (pyelonephritis).
In addition, the patient must be closely monitored throughout the process, as there is a risk of serious complications.
Which doctor performs kidney stone surgery?
A urologist is a doctor who specializes in treating diseases and conditions of the urinary system and the male reproductive system. Urologists can perform surgery to remove kidney stones, as well as other procedures.
How is kidney stone removal surgery performed?
In the video below, urologist Dr. Bruno Benigno explains step by step how laser surgery for kidney stones, lithotripsy, is performed.
What size of kidney stone requires surgery?
Urologic surgeons generally agree that any kidney stone measuring more than 5 millimeters should be removed. If the stone is larger, it can block the flow of urine, causing severe pain and medical complications. Surgery to remove kidney stones is called percutaneous nephrolithotomy.
Removal can be done in two ways:
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): a non-surgical option in which a device in contact with the patient's skin emits high-frequency shock waves focused on the stone. The waves break up the stone, which is then passed in the urine.
- Laser intracorporeal lithotripsy: a surgical procedure in which the surgeon passes a micro camera through the patient's urethra to pulverize the stones using a laser fiber. The fragments are then suctioned out.
What can cause kidney stones?
Kidney stones form when crystals of certain minerals clump together. These crystals can form due to changes in the pH of the blood or urine, or because of an excessive concentration of certain minerals. Kidney stones can also result from infections or anatomical problems of the urinary tract. Treatment of kidney stones depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms.
What is bad for kidney stones?
Foods high in oxalate, such as spinach, cabbage and cassava, are among those that can cause kidney stones. The oxalic acid in these foods combines with calcium in the gastrointestinal tract and forms crystals, which can deposit in the kidneys and cause pain. Other foods that contain oxalate are citrus fruits, chocolate, beets and radishes.
Foods high in fat and animal protein can increase the risk of kidney stones. This is because they increase calcium excretion in the urine, which can lead to crystal formation. In addition, these foods also tend to reduce water excretion, which can favor the concentration of salts dissolved in the urine.
That is why it is important to limit consumption of these foods to reduce the risk of kidney stones.
What should you eat after kidney stone surgery?
Since kidney stone surgery can cause damage to the structures of the urinary tract, it is important to follow a healthy diet after the procedure. Foods rich in fiber and water are ideal to ease bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Other important measures include avoiding alcoholic beverages and caffeine, as well as not eating spicy or very fatty foods.
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Beyond the stone: a complete urological evaluation
At Clínica Uro Onco, the kidney stone consultation also reviews your urological health as a whole — with a special focus on prevention and early diagnosis of prostate, bladder and kidney cancers:
- PSA and prostate cancer risk;
- blood in the urine and bladder health;
- kidney masses and cysts found on imaging tests.
Dr. Bruno Benigno
Urologist and uro-oncologic surgeon (CRM-SP 126.265 · RQE 60022). More than 1,500 robotic surgeries. Member of the AUA, EAU and SBU. Meet Dr. Bruno · In the Media
This content is educational and does not replace a medical consultation. Each case must be assessed individually, based on AUA, EAU and NCCN guidelines.