Kidney Stone Surgery

Kidney stone surgery includes several minimally invasive procedures used to remove or break up stones that are unlikely to pass on their own, are causing significant symptoms or are increasing the risk of complications. Houston Methodist urologists evaluate the size, location and type of your stone to recommend the treatment that best fits your condition and goals.

 

At Houston Methodist, surgery is not the first step for most kidney stones. Our urology specialists begin with non-surgical treatment whenever possible and recommend a procedure only when more conservative options are unlikely to work or have not provided relief.

What Is Kidney Stone Surgery

Kidney stone surgery refers to a range of procedures used to remove stones or break them into smaller pieces when they are too large or too complex to pass naturally. The right approach depends on factors such as stone size, location, composition, anatomy and your overall health.

 

Most modern kidney stone procedures do not require large incisions. Many people go home the same day or after a short hospital stay, depending on the procedure performed.

Why Choose Houston Methodist for Kidney Stone Care

When it comes to kidney stone treatment, experience and expertise matter. Houston Methodist’s team of nationally recognized urologist brings together advanced diagnostic tools, the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques and a patient-centered approach to deliver outstanding care. From your initial consultation throughout your recovery, our specialists work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your needs today and your long-term urological health.

Call Us to Get Started With Your Urology Care

Nationally Ranked in Urology by U.S. News & World Report

Houston Methodist Hospital has been nationally ranked in Urology by U.S. News & World Report. U.S. News & World Report has also named Houston Methodist Hospital one of the nation's best as a nationally ranked Honor Roll hospital.

 

Learn More  ➝

Types of Kidney Stone Treatment

Several procedures may be used to treat kidney stones. Your doctor will recommend the option most likely to safely remove the stone while minimizing recovery time and the need for additional treatment.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) removes large or complex kidney stones (including staghorn stones) that are unlikely to be effectively treated with less invasive procedures.

Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL)

Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) uses targeted sound waves from outside the body to break a stone into smaller fragments that can pass through the urinary tract. It works best for smaller stones in accessible locations and typically does not require an incision.

Ureteroscopy
Ureteroscopy uses a thin scope passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter or kidney to locate and treat stones. It is often combined with laser lithotripsy to break stones into fragments or with basket retrieval to remove them. A temporary stent may also be used when needed.

How Does Kidney Stone Removal Work?

Kidney stone removal varies by procedure, but the goal is the same — remove the stone while limiting disruption to nearby tissue. Before treatment, your care team may use imaging to confirm the stone’s size and location and determine which approach is most appropriate.

 

During the procedure, your doctor reaches the stone using the chosen technique and then either removes it or breaks it into smaller pieces. Depending on the type of procedure, anesthesia may be used, and a temporary stent may be placed to help urine drain while you heal.

Kidney Stone Surgery Success Rates

Kidney Stone Surgery Success Rates

Kidney stone procedures are highly effective, though outcomes vary based on factors such as stone size, location, composition and the treatment approach selected. In general, PCNL is often used for larger stones, ureteroscopy is commonly effective for small to mid-size stones and SWL may require repeat treatment in some cases.

 

Your doctor will review the approach most likely to work for your stone and explain what to expect before and after treatment.

What Conditions Does Kidney Stone Surgery Treat?

Kidney stone surgery is used to treat stones that are unlikely to pass on their own or are causing complications. It may be recommended for:

Large Kidney Stones

Stones larger than 10 mm often require a procedure such as PCNL or ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy.

Urinary Obstructions

Stones lodged in the ureter or renal pelvis can obstruct urine flow, causing severe pain and increasing the risk of infection, kidney damage or loss of kidney function if left untreated.

Chronic Infections

Stones associated with recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) can continue the cycle of infection until they are removed.

 

 

  • Who Qualifies for Kidney Stone Surgery?

    Your doctor may recommend kidney stone surgery if a stone is too large to pass, has not responded to conservative treatment or is causing significant symptoms such as severe pain, ongoing urinary tract infections or urinary obstruction.

     

    To determine whether surgery is right for you, your care team will review the stone’s size and location, your anatomy and your overall health. When appropriate, they will also explain less invasive options and why one approach may be recommended over another.

  • Preparing for Kidney Stone Surgery

    Preparation begins before the procedure. Your doctor may recommend steps such as:

     

    • Completing any required pre-op lab work or imaging
    • Stopping blood-thinning medications if your doctor advises it
    • Stopping smoking, vaping or other tobacco use before surgery
    • Arranging transportation home if anesthesia will be used
    • Setting up a comfortable recovery space at home
    • Stopping eating or drinking when instructed the night before the procedure

  • Recovering from Kidney Stone Surgery

    Recovery depends on the procedure performed and your overall health. SWL often allows a return to normal activities within a day or two, ureteroscopy may require a few days of recovery, and PCNL may involve a short hospital stay and a recovery period of one to two weeks.

     

    Mild discomfort, urinary urgency and light blood in the urine are common during recovery, particularly if a temporary ureteral stent has been placed. A temporary ureteral stent may also be placed to support healing and urine drainage. Staying well-hydrated and keeping follow-up appointments are important parts of recovery.

Choose a Doctor at One of Our Locations

FILTERS:
    Clear All Filters
    No results were found that matched your search criteria. Please try removing filters or zooming out on the map.
    6 Signs It’s Time to See a Urologist
    Urologic symptoms like bladder issues or can be signs of an underlying health problem.
    Kidney Stone Prevention: How Much Water Should You Drink?
    For most people, kidney stone prevention starts by following general recommendations for adequate hydration.
    What Do Kidney Stone Symptoms Feel Like?
    While the most-discussed kidney stone symptom is often the pain, it's not the only symptom to be aware of.
    Men's Health: Managing Kidney Stones and Incontinence
    Knowing your risk factors and recognizing symptoms may help you avoid serious health problems.

    FAQs: Kidney Stone Surgery

    TOP