What is Kidney stones?
Kidney stones or renal calculi are hard masses of salts and minerals that are formed in the kidneys. The function of kidneys is to balance the fluids and remove the waste products from the body. But when there are high levels of minerals and salts in the urine, it leads to the formation of stones. In the case of kidney stones, the stones may cause discomfort and immense pain due to obstruction in the urinary tract. Kidney stones can be as small as a grain of sand or as big as a golf ball. Therefore, it is necessary to treat kidney stones to prevent infecting other parts of the urinary tract.
Causes
- Family history
- Less fluid intake
- Drinking less water
- Obesity
- Excessive consumption of animal protein
- Excessive intake of sugar or salt
Symptoms
- Intense pain in the back or around the belly
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Foul smelling urine
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fevers and chills
Diagnosis
- Blood tests - Examine calcium, phosphorus, uric acid, and electrolytes.
- Blood urea nitrogen(BUN) and creatinine - To indicate any abnormal kidney functioning.
- Urinalysis - Assessment of contents of urine and indicate any crystals, bacteria, blood, etc.
- Imaging tests such as abdominal X-rays
- Ultrasound or an MRI
- Abdominal CT scan
Surgery
There are several methods available for the treatment of kidney stones. Modern and effective surgical treatments for kidney stones include laparoscopic treatment, laser treatment and shock wave lithotripsy.
Cost
Depending upon these mentioned factors, the average cost of kidney stone surgery in India ranges between INR 45,000- INR 2,00,000.
You can give us a call if you still have any cost related queries or concerns.
Get advanced painless kidney stone surgeries in India
People in India who are dealing with the pain and discomfort of kidney stones can get in touch with one of our specialists for expert advice. We offer the most advanced and minimally invasive procedures for permanent kidney stone treatment. The modern kidney stone surgeries are completely painless and absolutely safe. Our surgeons are highly experienced and you can trust us for a reliable treatment. Give us a call to book your appointment today.
Different surgeries for kidney stone removal available in India
The following kidney stone surgeries are available at our treatment centres:
Laparoscopic surgery- In laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon carries out a few minor incisions in the lower abdomen region. Through one of these incisions, a camera fitted laparoscope is inserted to get a clearer picture of the kidney. Other surgical instruments are also used to remove the stones and the incisions are then sewed back using sutures.
Extracoropreal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)- In ESWL, the surgeon uses thousands of shock wave pulses to break the stone into smaller pieces. These small stone pieces can easily travel through the urinary tract and eventually get flushed out during urination.
Laser Lithotripsy- In laser lithotripsy or laser ureteroscopy, the surgeon inserts a lighted ureteroscope into the urinary tract through the urethra. This allows the surgeon to locate the stones easily. Once located, the surgeon uses laser pulses to crush the stone into smaller pieces. Some of the stone pieces are removed during the procedure using a surgical basket. The stone granules then get flushed out along with the pressure of the urine.
Minimally invasive kidney stone surgeries offer the following benefits over open procedure:
- No major incisions or stitches required for stone removal
- Minimal bleeding involved during the procedure
- Painless treatment - Use of anesthesia
- No long hospital stays required
- Patient experiences no major discomfort post surgery
- Negligible risk of postoperative infections or complications
- No long term scars left behind
- Faster recovery in just 4-5 days
Why is delaying kidney stone surgery dangerous?
Kidney stones may not seem to be very serious in the initial stages. However, if proper treatment is delayed, the following complications can arise:
- Frequent infections in the urinary tract
- Formation of urethral strictures and injuries to the urinary tract
- Inflammation of the kidneys due to restricted urine flow
- Permanent damage to kidney functioning
- Increased risk of certain types of cancers in the urinary tract
Therefore, it is better to get kidney stones treated at the earliest.
How much is the estimated cost of kidney stone removal surgery in India
The estimated cost of kidney stone surgery can differ from patient to patient. The average of the treatment is determined by the following factors:
- Experience and skills of the surgeon
- Location of the hospital chosen for kidney stone surgery
- Type of surgery performed
- Cost of anesthesia
- Post-surgery medications
- Whether or not the patient health insurance holder
- Any underlying medical condition (if any)
- Followup consultations with the doctor
Depending upon these mentioned factors, the average cost of kidney stone surgery in India ranges between INR 45,000- INR 2,00,000. You can give us a call if you still have any cost related queries or concerns.