The best method for passing kidney stones
Disease description:
The patient also had a history of kidney stones before, and this year it was especially severe. They developed kidney stones again, but the stones could not be shattered and had to be passed naturally. They would like to know what are the best methods for passing kidney stones.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
The treatment for kidney stones primarily depends on the size, type, location of the stone, and the patient's overall health condition. The following are some common management approaches:
1. **Increased fluid intake:** Drinking more water helps dilute the urine, reducing stone formation and assisting in the natural passage of small stones.
2. **Medication:** For certain types of stones (such as struvite stones), doctors may prescribe specific medications to dissolve existing stones or prevent new ones from forming.
3. **Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL):** High-energy shock waves are used from outside the body to break up the stones, allowing the fragments to pass naturally through the urinary tract.
4. **Ureteroscopic lithotripsy:** A thin, long scope is inserted through the urethra to locate the stone, which is then fragmented using laser or other tools, making it easier to expel.
5. **Open surgery:** In very rare cases, traditional open surgery may be required if the stone is extremely large or complex, although this is uncommon.
