Kidney Stone Management

Kidney stones are a painful condition that affects the kidneys of many individuals worldwide. The journey of a kidney stone from diagnosis to treatment can be fraught with discomfort and uncertainty.

Knowing this, Dr. Padayachee offers a comprehensive management service designed to effectively treat the stones, minimise discomfort, and prevent recurrence.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones occur when minerals and other substances in the urine crystallise in the kidneys. They develop into hard stones that can cause severe pain and other symptoms as they pass through the urinary tract.

Some may pass on their own with time, but others require medical intervention.

How Do We Diagnose Kidney Stones?

The first step in managing kidney stones is an accurate and timely diagnosis. Symptoms such as sharp pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, nausea, and frequent urination are often indicators.

Dr. Padayachee uses the latest diagnostic techniques, including imaging tests, to determine the size, type and location of the stones, which are crucial in deciding the best treatment approach.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Kidney stone treatment has evolved significantly over the years, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques that offer quicker recovery times and less discomfort.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)

PNCL is typically recommended for patients with large or complex kidney stones. Dr. Padayachee uses specialised instruments to break the kidney stones down and remove the fragments. Recovery from PCNL typically involves a short hospital stay, and patients can return to normal activities within a couple of weeks.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

ESWL uses shock waves to break kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be passed naturally through the urinary tract. This procedure is ideal for small kidney stones and requires no incisions as the shock waves are emitted from outside the body.

Flexible and Semi-Rigid Ureteroscopy

Ureteroscopy uses a thin, flexible or semi-rigid instrument to locate and treat kidney stones within the ureter or kidney. The procedure allows Dr. Padayachee to directly observe the stone, use laser energy to fragment it, and then extract the pieces, all without making incisions.

Can Kidney Stones Be Prevented?

Yes. Prevention plays a crucial role in kidney stone management. Dr. Padayachee provides lifestyle and dietary recommendations based on the type of stones you are prone to forming.

Staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing weight are general tips that can help reduce the risk of kidney stones forming in the future.

Why Visit Us For Kidney Stone Management?

Choosing our practice at Life Bedford Gardens Hospital for kidney stone management means selecting a team that combines medical excellence with a compassionate, patient-centred approach.

We understand the impact of kidney stones on your quality of life and prioritise treatments that address the problem and focus on your comfort and long-term health.