What are the treatment methods for urinary stones?

Treatment methods for urinary stones include the following:

1. Observation and management: For stones smaller than 4mm, observation may be chosen, involving dietary control and increased water intake to allow spontaneous passage of the stone. Not all small stones can pass naturally, and this process may take several weeks or months.

2. Medication: Applicable for certain specific types of stones, such as uric acid stones, cholesterol stones, etc. Commonly used medications include tamsulosin, allopurinol, potassium sodium citrate, methionine, etc., which can promote stone dissolution or reduce stone formation. All medications must be taken under a doctor's guidance.

3. Ureteroscopic lithotripsy: Suitable for stones located in the middle and lower segments of the ureter. A ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra directly to the stone, where laser or pneumatic lithotripsy is used to fragment and remove the stone. This method is minimally invasive, allows rapid recovery, and has a high success rate.

4. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Mainly used for large or complex kidney stones larger than 2 cm in diameter. Under local anesthesia, a puncture is made through the skin into the kidney, and a nephroscope is introduced to fragment and remove the stone. Although highly effective, it is an invasive procedure with relatively higher risks.