Urology • 4 min read
Kidney Stone Treatment Options: Medical Management, RIRS & PCNL
Author: Om Kilkari Medical Editorial DeskMedically Reviewed By: Dr. Krishna Mohan Kushwaha (MBBS, MS (Surgery), DrNB (Urology))Published: Updated:
Treatment for renal and ureteric calculi depends on stone size, location, hardness, and kidney drainage. Learn when hydration works versus endoscopic laser clearance.
Treatment Options Based on Stone Size & Location
- •Medical Expulsive Therapy: Hydration and physician-prescribed medications for small stones (<5 mm) without obstruction or infection.
- •RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery): Flexible scope passed through the natural urinary passage with Holmium laser fragmentation—requires no skin incision.
- •PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy): Keyhole tract surgery suited for large (>2 cm) or staghorn kidney stones.
Red-Flag Symptoms Requiring Urgent Urological Care
- •Severe flank pain accompanied by fever, chills, or vomiting
- •Visible blood in urine (hematuria) or inability to pass urine