How Can Kidney Stones Be Best Treated?

Update Date: 2024-07-30 Source: Network

Clinically, there is no statement on how to cure kidney stones. For patients with small and asymptomatic kidney stones, no treatment may be required initially, and regular follow-up examinations are sufficient. However, for those with larger stones or significant discomfort, drug therapy, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, and surgical methods may be needed for relief. Here are the treatment options:

1. Observation and Waiting:

If the patient's kidney stone is less than 0.6cm in size and does not exhibit obvious clinical manifestations such as back pain or hematuria, no special treatment is required initially. Drinking plenty of water to promote excretion is recommended in daily life.

2. Drug Therapy:

In cases of unbearable pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used under a doctor's guidance for pain relief, such as Ibuprofen Sustained-release Tablets or Diclofenac Sodium Sustained-release Tablets. Simultaneously, sodium bicarbonate oral solution can be taken to alkalinize the urine and reduce irritation to the kidneys.

3. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy:

Suitable for kidney stones with a diameter greater than or equal to 2 cm, this treatment involves focusing high-energy on the stones inside the body under ultrasound localization and X-ray fluoroscopy, breaking the stones into small particles that are then expelled from the body. However, it may lead to ureteral injury and infection.

4. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy:

Primarily used for patients with staghorn calculi and severe complications, percutaneous nephrolithotomy is one of the commonly used minimally invasive surgical methods. Its advantages include minimal trauma, fast recovery, short hospital stay, and no need for bed rest after surgery, allowing patients to resume normal daily activities shortly.

5. Open Surgery:

Including pyelolithotomy and nephrectomy, open surgery is mainly used when other therapies are not tolerated or the above two methods are ineffective. It is recommended that patients maintain a light diet and avoid spicy and stimulating foods to prevent exacerbation of the condition.