Physical methods for eliminating kidney stones

Physical methods for removing kidney stones typically refer to techniques such as exercise-induced stone passage, cupping therapy, and laser lithotripsy. These procedures should be performed under the guidance of a qualified physician. Taking laser lithotripsy as an example, the specific procedure is as follows:

1. After entering the operating room, the patient lies flat on the surgical table. The anesthesiologist administers anesthesia, while the surgeon performs routine disinfection of the surgical site and drapes the area.

2. Once anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon inserts a urinary catheter through the urethra, followed by a ureteral catheter into the kidney, then injects contrast agent to locate the kidney stone under X-ray imaging.

3. The patient is repositioned into a lateral decubitus position. A puncture needle is inserted into the targeted renal calyx. A metal guidewire is passed through the needle, after which the needle is withdrawn.

4. A series of fascial dilators are threaded over the guidewire one after another, gradually dilating the tract until it is sufficiently enlarged to allow insertion of the nephroscope.

5. Small stones within the kidney are removed directly using the nephroscope. Larger stones are fragmented using laser energy and then extracted.

6. Contrast agent is injected again to confirm complete stone removal. After verification, a ureteral stent is placed, the nephroscope is withdrawn, and a nephrostomy tube is inserted. The procedure then concludes.

After surgery, patients should drink plenty of water, urinate frequently, and maintain a light, healthy diet.