What is the treatment for upper ureteral stones?
Disease description:
My friend was diagnosed with a ureteral stone at the hospital, and the examination revealed that it is located in the upper segment. What is the treatment for stones in the upper segment of the ureter?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Luo Yong
The treatment of upper ureteral stones mainly depends on the size and location of the stone. When the stone is smaller than 5mm, general management such as drinking plenty of water and increasing physical activity is usually recommended to facilitate spontaneous stone passage. For stones measuring 5-10mm, medical therapy such as tamsulosin and potassium sodium citrate can help relax the ureteral smooth muscle and promote stone expulsion. If the stone is larger than 10mm, surgical intervention becomes the preferred option, including extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy and ureteroscopic lithotripsy, to effectively fragment and remove the stone. The appropriate treatment method for upper ureteral stones should be selected based on individual patient circumstances.
