I have a 9 mm kidney stone, so the doctor told me to do lithotripsy. Is there any side effect?

Question

Hi doctor,

My latest report shows nearly 9 mm of kidney stones. The doctors suggested me to do the lithotripsy. So need some consultation related to this. I need to know is there any side effect, and is that possible to avoid this procedure? Impressions are, bilateral nephrolithiasis with large obstructing calculus in the proximal left ureter. Mild left pelvocaliectasis and proximal left hydroureter secondary to 9 x 6 mm stone lodged in the left ureter at L3 level, and cholelithiasis.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Left 9 mm proximal ureteric stone and three stones most massive at 7 mm in the left kidney. The stone density was 145 HU on the CT (computed tomography) report. The lithotripsy is the first option, and least invasive option of managing this 9 mm ureteric stone expecting good response and fragmentation as the stone is not hard HU 145. Lithotripsy (ESWL (extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy)) is a day cause procedure and does not require anesthesia. But make sure urine culture and blood tests FBC (full blood count), UEC (urea, electrolytes, and creatinine) coagulation profile done, and you are not on anti-coagulations or anti-platelets. The second option is a flexible ureteroscopy. It is more invasive and done under anesthesia, but can clear all stones, ureter, and kidney in a single procedure. If you have any more queries, please do not hesitate to ask.

Kind regards.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thanks for the follow-up.

I prefer you to go for the procedure as soon as possible because the stone is obstructing your left kidney and causing damage by reducing the kidney function or by infection later. I agree now there is no pain, but the kidney is blocked with the stone, and that blockage needs to be cleared to stop further kidney damage.

Kind regards.