Ask an expert: How does laser lithotripsy work?

In this informative article, highly respected consultant urological surgeon Mr Keng Jin Ng gives an expert guide to laser lithotripsy, including what the treatment entails, its benefits and what patients should expect from the recovery period to follow.

What is laser lithotripsy?

Laser lithotripsy is a medical procedure that uses a laser to break up kidney stones or other hard objects in the urinary tract, such as bladder stones. The procedure is also known as laser stone surgery or laser kidney stone treatment.

How does laser lithotripsy work?

A laser is directed at the kidney stone through a scope that is inserted into the urinary tract. The laser energy shatters the stone into small pieces that can be easily passed through the urinary tract and out of the body. Larger fragment of stones can also be removed using a miniature basket internally guided by the scope through natural urinary passage.

What are the benefits of laser lithotripsy?

The main benefit of laser lithotripsy is that it allows for the fragmentation of kidney stones without the need for open surgery. It also has a lower risk of complications than traditional surgical methods and patients typically have a shorter recovery time.

Who is a candidate for laser lithotripsy?

Laser lithotripsy is typically recommended for patients with kidney stones that are too large to pass on their own or that are causing severe pain or blockages. It is also an option for patients who are not candidates for other types of kidney stone treatments, such as shockwave lithotripsy. It is also more effective than shockwave in removing stones that are located at the bottom part of kidney.

What is the recovery time for laser lithotripsy?

Recovery time for laser lithotripsy can vary, but most patients are able to return to normal activities within a few days of the procedure. Some patients may experience pain or discomfort for a few days after the procedure, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

For patients with larger stones, who may require a ureteric stent (internal hollow straw) to protect the kidney while facilitating drainage of large amount of stone debris, the stent itself may cause some irritation. The stent is usually removed after a week without the need for general anaesthetic.

Are there any risks or complications associated with laser lithotripsy?

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks and complications associated with laser lithotripsy. These may include bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding tissue. However, the risk of complications is generally low, and most patients experience no significant problems after the procedure.

If you require treatment by laser lithotripsy and wish to schedule a consultation with Mr Ng, you can do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile.