Kidney stones are formed when excess material crystallizes in the kidney. They affect 10 percent of the population, men more than women. More than 50 percent of patients form another stone within 10 years.
Evaluation
1. Urinalysis
2. Blood tests
3. X-rays
Kidney stone symptoms include back and groin pain, symptoms with urination, and blood in the urine. Some stones also cause urinary tract infections. Occasionally, stones cause no symptoms but can lead to kidney damage.
Treatment
How a particular stone is treated depends on its size and location. The best method to take care of a stone is for the patient to pass it on his or her own.
Treatment Options
1. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
2. Ureteral stent
3. Ureteroscopy
4. Percutaneous
5. Open surgery (incisional)
Prevention
The single most important way to help prevent kidney stone formation is to stay well-hydrated.
Summary
The key points in evaluating kidney stones are diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
