Laser Surgery for Stone Removal

Laser lithotripsy or Laser surgery for stone removal is a minimally invasive procedure used to break down and remove stones in the urinary tract. It involves using laser energy to fragment the stones into smaller pieces, which pass through natural urine flow.

Types of Laser Surgery for Stone Removal

There are two major types of laser surgery for stone removal:

Flexible Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy: Flexible ureteroscopy involves passing a thin, flexible tube (ureteroscope) through the urinary tract to reach the stone. The ureteroscope has a laser fibre attached to it, which emits laser energy to break down the stone.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) with Laser Lithotripsy: PCNL involves creating a small incision in the back and inserting a hollow tube (nephroscope) directly into the kidney to access and remove the stone. Laser energy is then used to fragment the stone, allowing for its removal. This procedure is usually reserved for larger stones or cases where other treatments have been ineffective.