For most patients, kidney stones will pass through the urinary tract on their own and not require any additional treatment. More proactive treatment may be needed for individuals who are experiencing exceptionally severe pain, have developed a urinary infection or those with particularly large kidney stones. While open surgery is occasionally required, Hattiesburg Clinic offers non-invasive and minimally invasive options to treat kidney stones.
This non-surgical procedure involves passing high-energy shock waves through the body to break down the kidney stones into very fine pieces. This allows the kidney stones to pass more easily through the urinary tract, limiting pain and complications. It is a completely non-invasive and non-surgical treatment for kidney stones.
Lithotripsy is performed under light sedation or, occasionally, general anesthesia, so the procedure itself is not painful. The process is monitored in real-time via X-ray or ultrasound to ensure that the kidney stones are successfully broken up. After the procedure is finished, however, you will still have to pass the smaller remains of the kidney stones. Patients may experience abdominal cramping and blood in their urine for a few days following the procedure. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication and drinking ample water will help with symptoms.
Ultimately, you and your urologist will determine the best treatment approach based on your symptoms, diagnostics and medical history. Generally, lithotripsy is recommended for patients who have small kidney stones that can be seen on an X-ray. Pregnant patients are not a candidate for lithotripsy.
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort from kidney stones, it is important to seek care from a board-certified urologist. Kidney stones can quickly become an emergency if a stone that is too large begins to pass through the urinary tract, limiting your treatment options and sometimes requiring emergency surgery. Our office offers same-day appointments to accurately diagnose, monitor and treat kidney stones, giving you the most advanced options for your care and offering peace of mind. No referral is needed to make a same-day appointment.
Reach out to one of our Hattiesburg Clinic practices today to schedule a same-day appointment for kidney stone treatment.