Kidney stones can be incredibly painful, and in some cases, surgery is the only option to remove them. If you’re looking for information about kidney stone surgery, its types, costs, recovery time, and post-surgery care, this blog covers everything you need to know.
What is Kidney Stone Surgery?
Kidney stone surgery is a medical procedure used to remove stones that are too large to pass naturally through the urinary tract. Depending on the size and location of the stone, different surgical techniques may be recommended.
When is Kidney Stone Surgery Needed?
- Stones larger than 5mm-7mm causing severe pain
- Blockage in the urinary tract
- Recurrent urinary infections due to stones
- Failure of medications or non-surgical treatments
Types of Kidney Stone Surgery
| Surgery Type | Procedure | Recovery Time |
| Laser Lithotripsy (URS) | Uses a laser to break stones | 1-2 days |
| Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL) | High-energy shock waves break stones into small pieces | 1 week |
| Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) | A small incision is made to remove stones | 1-2 weeks |
| Laparoscopic Kidney Stone Surgery | Minimally invasive surgery for large stones | 2 weeks |
Kidney Stone Surgery Cost in India
The cost of kidney stone surgery varies based on the type of surgery, hospital, and city.
| City | Surgery Cost (INR) |
| Delhi | ₹40,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹45,000 – ₹1,80,000 |
| Chennai | ₹40,000 – ₹1,60,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹35,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
Is Kidney Stone Surgery Covered Under Health Insurance? Yes, most health insurance policies cover kidney stone surgery. Nectar Health can help you find the best hospitals with insurance coverage.
Recovery After Kidney Stone Surgery
How Long Does Recovery Take?
- Laser Lithotripsy (URS): 1-2 days
- Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL): 1 week
- PCNL Surgery: 1-2 weeks
- Laparoscopic Surgery: 2 weeks
Post-Surgery Care & Diet
- Drink plenty of water (at least 3 liters/day)
- Avoid high-oxalate foods like spinach and nuts
- Limit salt and animal protein intake
- Avoid alcohol for at least 2 weeks
- Monitor for symptoms of infection like fever, chills, or blood in urine
Conclusion
Kidney stone surgery is a safe and effective way to relieve pain and prevent complications. If you’re looking for expert care, Nectar Health can help you find the best hospitals and specialists for kidney stone removal surgery.
Book your consultation today!
FAQs
1. Is kidney stone surgery painful?
Most surgeries are performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort is common post-surgery.
2. Can I drink alcohol after kidney stone surgery?
It is advised to avoid alcohol for at least 2 weeks after surgery to prevent dehydration and complications.
3. What are the symptoms of infection after kidney stone surgery?
Signs of infection include fever, chills, burning sensation while urinating, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
4. Which is the best hospital for kidney stone surgery?
Hospitals affiliated with Nectar Health offer expert urologists and advanced kidney stone removal procedures.
5. What is the best treatment for kidney stones?
The best treatment depends on the stone size and location. Laser treatment for kidney stones is highly effective for small to medium-sized stones.
6. Is removal of kidney stone a major surgery?
It depends on the procedure. PCNL and laparoscopic surgeries are considered major surgeries, whereas laser lithotripsy and SWL are minimally invasive.
7. What is the recovery time for kidney stone surgery?
Recovery varies by procedure:
- Laser Lithotripsy (URS): 1-2 days
- Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL): 1 week
- PCNL Surgery: 1-2 weeks
- Laparoscopic Surgery: 2 weeks
8. What is the best surgery for kidney stones?
The best surgery depends on the stone’s size and location. Laser lithotripsy (URS) is preferred for small stones, while PCNL or laparoscopic surgery is best for large stones.
9. Can you eat after kidney surgery?
Yes, but it’s recommended to start with light foods and gradually return to a normal diet. Avoid spicy, oily, and high-oxalate foods.
10. Can you live without kidneys?
No, kidneys are essential for filtering waste from the blood. However, patients with kidney failure can survive with dialysis or a kidney transplant.
11. What causes kidney stones?
Kidney stones form due to:
- Dehydration
- High intake of oxalate-rich foods (e.g., spinach, nuts)
- Excess salt and animal protein consumption
- Genetic factors and metabolic disorders
