Conditions & treatments / Kidney stones
Conditions & treatments
Kidney stones
Assessment, treatment and prevention of kidney stones.
Overview
Kidney stones may cause pain or be found on a scan performed for another reason. Management depends on the stone’s size and location, your symptoms and whether there is obstruction or infection.
Assessment
Your consultation may include a review of your scans, urine tests and blood tests. We also review any previous kidney stones and your medical history.
Treatment and follow-up
- Observation or medical management when appropriate
- Dissolution therapy for suitable stones
- Ureteroscopy and laser treatment
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)
- Assessment of recurrent stones and prevention strategies
We discuss the benefits and risks of suitable options, taking your individual circumstances into account.
Seek urgent medical care if you have fever or chills with stone pain, cannot pass urine, or feel very unwell.
Prepare for your appointment
Bring your referral, relevant test results and scans, and a list of medicines. It can help to write down the questions you would like to ask.