Kidney stones medically known as renal calculi or urinary stones are hard, crystal-like deposits that form inside the kidneys when minerals and salts in the urine become concentrated. Their size can vary significantly, ranging from tiny grains that pass unnoticed to larger stones that may block the urinary tract and cause intense pain.
When these stones obstruct the flow of urine, they can lead to severe abdominal or back pain, blood in the urine (hematuria), nausea, vomiting, and frequent urge to urinate.
Kidney stones typically develop when the balance of water, minerals, and salts in urine is disrupted. Substances such as calcium, oxalate, phosphate, and uric acid can crystallize and stick together, gradually forming stones. Risk factors include:
Not all kidney stones are the same. Their composition determines the type of stone and the recommended treatment:
1. Calcium Stones
2. Uric Acid Stones
3. Struvite Stones
4. Cystine Stones
Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi or urinary stones, form when minerals and salts in the urine become concentrated and crystallize. This can lead to painful obstructions in the urinary tract and other health issues. The condition is influenced by several factors and presents with noticeable symptoms:
Proper diagnosis is the first step in effective kidney stone treatment. At MASSH Hospital, experienced urologists use a combination of clinical evaluation and advanced diagnostic tests to determine the size, type, and location of stones.
A urine sample is tested to detect crystals, blood, or signs of infection. This helps identify the type of stone and assess kidney function.
Blood tests check for high levels of calcium, uric acid, or kidney function abnormalities, which may contribute to stone formation.
If a stone passes naturally, it can be collected and analyzed in a lab to determine its composition. This helps in preventing future stone formation through targeted dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
Kidney stones that do not pass naturally often require medical intervention. At advanced urology centers like MASSH, minimally invasive procedures are preferred for faster recovery and minimal discomfort. The main treatment options include:
Each procedure is selected based on stone size, location, and patient health, ensuring safe and effective kidney stone treatment.
Kidney stones require treatment based on their size, location, and patient condition. Selecting the right procedure ensures high success rates, minimal discomfort, and faster recovery. The following table summarizes the best treatment options according to stone size:
Stone Size | Recommended Treatment | Overview |
<4 mm | Observation & Hydration | Small stones often pass naturally with increased water intake, pain management, and lifestyle adjustments. |
4–6 mm | URS | Alpha-blockers or medications may help stones pass; minimally invasive procedures are considered if needed. |
6–10 mm | URS, RIRS | Stones may require shock wave treatment or endoscopic removal depending on location and patient factors. |
10–20 mm | RIRS, Mini-PCNL, URS | Moderate-sized stones often need minimally invasive surgical techniques to ensure complete removal. |
>20 mm | PCNL, Mini-PCNL, Combined Approaches | Large or complex stones are typically treated via percutaneous surgery, sometimes in combination with other techniques. |
Note: Surgical approach varies depending on the patient's condition and the location of the kidney stone.
The cost of kidney stone treatment at MASSH Hospital in Delhi depends on the type of procedure, complexity of the case, and individual patient requirements.
Minimally invasive treatments like Laser Lithotripsy, RIRS, or URS generally involve shorter hospital stays and faster recovery, while procedures such as PCNL may require more extensive care.
Factors like room category, surgeon expertise, diagnostic tests, and post-operative support can influence overall treatment expenses.
MASSH Hospital offers insurance coverage, bundled packages, and guidance on government schemes to ensure accessible and affordable kidney stone care.
Consulting our expert urologists helps patients select the most suitable treatment and receive a personalized cost estimate.
Preventing kidney stones is often easier than treating them. Simple lifestyle and dietary adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
Following these steps, combined with guidance from a specialized urologist, can help minimize kidney stone formation and maintain overall kidney health.
This page is medically reviewed by Dr. Ankit Goel, - Head of Department - Urology, Andrology & Uro-Oncology at MASSH Hospital, Delhi.
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At MASSH Hospital in Delhi, kidney stone treatments are tailored to individual needs, ensuring high success rates and efficient recovery. The hospital employs advanced techniques like Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS), Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy (URS), each chosen based on stone size, location, and patient health.
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If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones or need a consultation, visit MASSH Hospital in Delhi. Our expert team is here to offer you the highest level of care and support to help you overcome kidney stones and prevent future occurrences.
These cases highlight the hospital's commitment to effective treatment and patient care.
MASSH emphasizes preventive measures to reduce recurrence:
By adhering to these guidelines, patients can significantly lower the risk of future kidney stones.
MASSH Hospital in Delhi offers comprehensive insurance and cashless treatment options for kidney stone procedures, ensuring financial accessibility for all patients.
MASSH is empanelled with leading Third Party Administrators (TPAs) and insurance providers, facilitating cashless hospitalization for insured patients. This includes coverage for various kidney stone treatments such as Laser Lithotripsy (URS), RIRS and Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Patients can avail these services without upfront payments, subject to policy terms.
MASSH collaborates with several prominent insurance companies, including:
These partnerships ensure a wide range of coverage options for patients seeking kidney stone treatment.
For more information or to check your eligibility for cashless treatment, please contact MASSH Hospital's billing department at info@massh.in
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Kidney stones can be treated using Laser Lithotripsy (URS), RIRS, Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL), or Ureteroscopy (URS). The choice depends on stone size, location, and patient health.
Recovery depends on the procedure:
Patients are advised to stay hydrated and follow post-surgery care instructions for faster recovery.
Minimally invasive procedures like RIRS, URS, and PCNL are designed to reduce pain. Mild discomfort may occur, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
Yes, recurrence is possible. Preventive measures such as staying hydrated, following a kidney-friendly diet, and regular check-ups reduce the risk of new stones forming.
Many health insurance providers, including TATA AIG, Niva Bupa, Star Health, and ManipalCigna, cover kidney stone treatments at MASSH. Cashless options are available based on policy terms.
Choose a hospital with experienced urologists, advanced minimally invasive technology, high success rates, and excellent patient care. MASSH Hospital meets these criteria and provides personalized treatment plans.
Small stones (<4 mm) often pass naturally with hydration and pain management. Medical Expulsive Therapy (MET) may also be recommended to help stones pass.
Patients should:
Recovery time depends on stone size, procedure type, and individual health.
All procedures carry minimal risks, including infection, bleeding, or temporary discomfort. Experienced urologists at MASSH ensure safe, effective, and closely monitored treatment.
Yes, kidney stones can recur, and they have a notably high recurrence rate. Studies indicate that up to 50% of individuals who experience a kidney stone are likely to develop another within 5 to 10 years, especially if preventive measures are not taken.
The chances of recurrence depend on several factors, including:
To reduce the risk of future stones, doctors typically recommend:
At MASSH, we provide comprehensive care plans tailored to each patient’s condition, helping minimize the risk of recurrence through targeted treatment and long-term prevention strategies.
Recovery after kidney stone treatment, especially following minimally invasive procedures like RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery), is generally smooth and quick. However, some temporary side effects are common and usually resolve within a few days.
You may experience:
Staying well-hydrated is crucial during this time, as it helps flush out any remaining stone fragments and supports kidney health. Your doctor may prescribe:
Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after RIRS. Your urologist may recommend follow-up imaging (such as an ultrasound or CT scan) to confirm that the stone has been completely cleared and to monitor for any recurrence.
Booking an appointment at MASSH (Minimal Access Smart Surgery Hospital) for kidney stone treatment is simple and convenient. You can:
Our team of experienced urologists offers advanced, minimally invasive treatments, including RIRS, PCNL, and laser lithotripsy, tailored to each patient’s needs.
To make the most of your consultation, we recommend bringing along any previous medical records, lab reports, or imaging scans. For patients with urgent symptoms, priority appointments may be available.
Let MASSH help you take the next step toward safe, effective kidney stone treatment with expert care and personalized attention.
Yes, pain in the side or lower back—often referred to as renal colic—is a common symptom of kidney stones, particularly when the stone is moving through the urinary tract. This pain typically begins suddenly and is usually felt on one side, just below the ribs, extending toward the lower abdomen or groin.
The intensity can vary and may come in waves, feeling either sharp or cramp-like. Additional symptoms often include:
However, it’s important to note that similar back pain could also result from muscle strain, urinary tract infections, or other medical conditions. If you’re experiencing persistent, severe, or unexplained side or lower back pain, consult a doctor promptly for an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
At MASSH in Delhi, our expert urology team uses advanced diagnostic tools to determine the cause and provide effective care tailored to your needs.
Yes, kidney stones can develop during pregnancy, although it’s relatively uncommon, affecting approximately 1 in every 1,500 pregnant women. Pregnancy-related hormonal and anatomical changes—such as increased calcium levels in the urine and reduced urinary flow due to pressure from the growing uterus—can create favorable conditions for stone formation.
Common symptoms may include:
Diagnosing and managing kidney stones during pregnancy requires special care to protect both the mother and the baby. Ultrasound is typically used for diagnosis, as it’s safe and effective. Treatment usually focuses on hydration, pain relief, and careful monitoring. In more complex cases, minimally invasive procedures may be considered under expert supervision.
If you’re pregnant and suspect you may have kidney stones, prompt consultation with a healthcare professional is essential. At MASSH in Delhi, our experienced team ensures safe, personalized care using pregnancy-safe diagnostic and treatment approaches.
The initial signs of kidney stones often begin with a sudden, sharp pain in the lower back, side, or below the ribs, which can radiate to the abdomen or groin. This pain, known as renal colic, tends to come in waves and varies in intensity as the stone moves through the urinary tract.
Other early symptoms may include:
Recognizing these early warning signs is important for timely diagnosis and treatment. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a urologist promptly. At MASSH (Minimal Access Smart Surgery Hospital) in Delhi, our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools and personalized care plans to manage kidney stones effectively and with minimal discomfort.