Anyone ever have a kidney stone that is too large for a lithotripsy?

Thank you for your feedback!

Re: Anyone ever have a kidney stone that is too large for a lithotripsy?

I thought the whole point of the litho was to break the larger stones down to smaller, passable ones. Wow, I have never heard of this.
What does the doctor say the option is in this case?

Re: Anyone ever have a kidney stone that is too large for a lithotripsy?

DH had larger stones, had the litho done and since they all didn't break up small enough had to have the litho done again a couple weeks after.

Re: Anyone ever have a kidney stone that is too large for a lithotripsy?

My understanding is that when it's over a certain size more invasive surgical approach is suggested because it would avoid possible blockages that would require an emergency procedure after Liithotripsy.

Re: Anyone ever have a kidney stone that is too large for a lithotripsy?

Re: Anyone ever have a kidney stone that is too large for a lithotripsy?

Some stones are too large for lithotripsy or too dense (depends on the type of stones).

There are 2 surgical options if litho is not offered or doesn't work:
1. Uteroscopy with laser and they then they go in with a basket to collect the stone pieces. This is an outpatient procedure. They enter through existing passageways.
2. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy or nephrolithotripsy which is where they make an incision in your back and place a tube in.

The 1st option is much less invasive.

Unfortunately I know a lot about stones. I will FM. Happy to help in any way I can!

Anyone ever have a kidney stone that is too large for a lithotripsy?

had this in March 2017 and April the stone was over 6mm, used laser, FM is you want info.


I pass up to 3 stones a year usually with issues and ER, hospital visits

Message edited 8/1/2017 11:02:40 PM.