Kidney stones can be quite painful, and if diagnosed with them, the treatment options must be scratching your head. Lithotripsy or surgery—the better one among them? Depending on several factors—the size, location of the stone, and your overall medical history or health—the best answer could vary considerably. At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, we are dedicated to helping patients select the method of treatment that may cause the least impact. Let us have a brief comparison between lithotripsy and surgery to arrive at an informed choice.
Lithotripsy vs. Surgery: Understanding the Differences
Lithotripsy: A Non-Invasive Approach
Lithotripsy is basically a non-invasive procedure where a shock wave impulse breaks the kidney stones into small pieces that allow them to easily pass with the natural urine process. In most circumstances, it is a preferred choice if stones are not larger than 2 cm.
Benefits of Lithotripsy:
- 1. Non-invasive, no cuts are performed
- 2. Quick recovery (most patients resume daily activity within some days)
- 3. All done as an outpatient
- 4. Minimal discomfort in comparison to other surgical procedures
Who is it best for? Best suited for patients with stones not more than 2 cm in the kidney or upper ureter: quick and less painful solution.
Traditional Surgery: When Is It Necessary?
For larger or more complex kidney stones, traditional surgery may be the best option. There are two main types of surgical interventions:
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Involves a small incision in the back to remove the stone directly from the kidney.
- Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy: A tiny camera is inserted through the urethra to locate and remove or break up the stone.
Benefits of Surgery:
- 1. Effective for large, stubborn, or multiple stones
- 2. Higher success rate for complete stone removal
- 3. Suitable for patients with complex kidney stone conditions
Who is it best for? Surgery is recommended for stones larger than 2 cm, those causing severe blockage, or when lithotripsy hasn’t been successful.
Why Lithotripsy Is Often the Better Choice
For many patients, lithotripsy is the first-line treatment due to its non-invasive approach and quick recovery. Most patients can go home the same day, avoid hospital stays, and get back to their routine with minimal downtime. However, choosing the right treatment depends on your specific case.
How Shree Srinivasa Uro Care Determines the Best Treatment for You
At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, our experienced urologists use advanced diagnostic techniques to assess your kidney stone’s size, composition, and location. We tailor the treatment plan based on:
- 1. The size and number of kidney stones
- 2. Your medical history and overall health
- 3. The urgency of treatment needed
Our goal is to provide the least invasive, most effective solution for your kidney stone problem.
Book a Consultation Today
Are you from Bangalore and still wondering which treatment approach is right for you—lithotripsy or surgery? Let our specialists at Shree Srinivasa Uro Care guide you.
If you are looking for lithotripsy treatment in Bangalore, schedule a consultation today, and we’ll help you find the best treatment for a pain-free life!