Laser Treatment for Kidney Stones in Carmarthensire

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are solid pieces of material that form when certain minerals and salts in the urine become concentrated and crystallise.

Some stones are very small and may pass through the urinary tract without causing noticeable symptoms. Larger kidney stones can become stuck in the ureter – the narrow tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. This can cause severe pain and, in some cases, restrict the flow of urine.

Treatment for kidney stones depends on factors including the size and location of the stone, your symptoms and your overall health.

Small kidney stones may cause few or no symptoms. When a stone moves into the ureter or becomes lodged, symptoms can include:

• Severe, sharp pain in the side or back
• Pain that may spread to the abdomen, groin or testicles
• Pain that comes and goes and varies in intensity
• Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
• Needing to urinate more frequently
• Passing only small amounts of urine
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine, which may appear pink, red or brown
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever or a high temperature

If you have severe pain, a fever or difficulty passing urine, seek urgent medical advice.

Kidney stones develop when there are high levels of certain substances in the urine, causing crystals to form and gradually develop into stones.

There may not always be one clear cause, but factors that can increase your risk include:

• A personal or family history of kidney stones
• Not drinking enough fluids
• A diet high in salt, protein or sugar
• Being overweight or obese
• Certain digestive conditions
• Previous gastric bypass surgery
• Some medications and supplements
• Certain medical conditions, including cystinuria, renal tubular acidosis and hyperparathyroidism
• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Laser treatment, often performed as part of a procedure called ureteroscopy, can be used to treat stones in the ureter or kidney.

During the procedure, your urologist passes a thin camera, called a ureteroscope, through the natural urinary passage and into the bladder and ureter. No external incision is required.

Once the stone has been located, a small laser is used to break it into smaller pieces. The fragments can then be removed or allowed to pass naturally in the urine, depending on their size and your individual circumstances.

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.

The procedure:

• Usually takes around one hour, although this can vary
• Is minimally invasive
• Does not require external incisions
• Uses a small scope and laser to access and break up the stone

Your recovery will depend on the size and location of the stone, the treatment performed and your individual circumstances.

Depending on your consultant's advice, you may be able to go home the same day. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or urinary symptoms following the procedure.

A ureteric stent may be placed temporarily to help urine drain from the kidney while the urinary tract heals. If a stent is used, your consultant will explain how and when it will be removed.

Your consultant will also advise you about pain relief, medication, returning to normal activities and any follow-up appointments you may need.

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:

• Flexible appointment times and locations to suit your routine · The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant fits your needs
• Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your specific requirements
• Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
• Private cosy ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
• Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
• Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care

If you would like to learn more about treatment for bladder stones, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.