Laser lithotripsy
Urinary stones can cause extreme discomfort for patients. Laser lithotripsy is a technique that is widely used for the treatment of kidney stones.
In this minimally invasive procedure, a laser breaks up kidney stones into very small particles. These particles can then be easily and painlessly passed out of the body in a patient’s urine.
How is it performed?
- Before the procedure, you might be required to undergo a physical examination, X-ray and imaging tests to determine the exact size and location of the stones.
- On the day of the procedure, our anaesthesiologist will make sure you are comfortable and at ease. They will then administer general anaesthesia.
- The doctor will insert a ureteroscope, a very thin and hollow instrument, into your urethra to enter your body.
- Depending upon the location of the kidney stones, the doctor will use the ureteroscope to enter your bladder, ureter or kidney.
- Once the doctor locates the stone, they will insert a fiber through the hole of the ureteroscope that will shoot a strong light beam at the stones.
- This beam will break up the kidney stones into small particles, which can then be collected by inserting a basket.
- Any granular pieces which remain can be easily passed out through the urine. The entire procedure will take around 1 hour.
