Laser Surgery
Whether stones are large or small, some won’t pass through your kidney and ureter by themselves. Oftentimes, these stones have rough, jagged edges.
Stones lodged in the ureter can cause significant pain and block the flow of urine. If a blockage exists for a long time permanent kidney damage can occur.
Laser surgery is often the answer when a stone will not pass. A thin laser fiber (about the thickness of a small paper clip) is inserted into a surgical telescope that can be passed into the ureter. A special type of laser energy, called Holmium, is used to fragment the stone. The resulting small pieces are usually removed with a fine wire “basket.” Don’t worry – the procedure is done with general anesthesia so you won’t feel any discomfort during the procedure.
In some cases, a small piece of plastic tubing may be left in the ureter to allow it to heal. It can be removed in 1-2 weeks with a simple office procedure.
You can learn about this and other kidney stone treatments from the professionals at Pacific Coast Urology Medical Center.
For your personalized consultation, Call, 888.735.4336 or email us via our Contact Us Form.