Kidney stones, explained without scaring you

Many kidney stones can be treated endoscopically through the urinary tract, depending on size, location, infection risk and kidney function. One commonly used option is RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery), where a thin flexible scope is passed through the urethra to reach the kidney.

A holmium laser can fragment the stone into smaller pieces, which are then washed out, retrieved or allowed to pass naturally. Hospital stay and recovery vary by stone burden, anaesthesia, stent placement and the patient's overall health.

For larger or harder stones, mini-PCNL may be advised. In this keyhole approach, the surgeon reaches the kidney through a small tract in the back and removes the stone fragments directly.

Your urologist will decide the safest option after reviewing imaging, urine tests, blood reports and symptoms. If you are unsure about a recommended procedure, a second opinion can help you make the decision calmly.