Kidney Stone Size Chart - Diagnosis, Treatment & Recovery

Treatment for Small-sized Stones (Up to 4 mm):

Kidney stones measuring up to 4 mm typically pass through the system independently, often causing mild to no symptoms. Increasing fluid intake, reducing caffeine consumption, opting for high-fiber foods, limiting salt intake, and avoiding processed foods are effective measures for managing stones of this size.

Treatment for Medium-sized Stones (4 to 10 mm):

Stones ranging from 4 mm to 10 mm can be addressed with home remedies and conservative treatments like medication, such as alpha-blockers and pain relievers. However, in more complex cases where conservative measures fail, medical procedures or minimally invasive surgeries may be recommended. These may include:

1. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL):
ESWL is a non-invasive technique used to break kidney stones into smaller pieces using high-energy sound waves. This fragmentation allows the stones to pass naturally from the body. The procedure typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, and patients can return home the same day.

2. Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy (URSL):
URSL involves removing kidney stones with a ureteroscope, a long, thin fiber-optic scope. The scope is inserted through the urethra into the ureter, while an x-ray guides its placement. Once the stones are located, a stone basket is used to collect and extract them. If the stones are too large, a laser may be employed to break them into smaller fragments, facilitating their natural expulsion. Additionally, a stent may be inserted to widen the ureter, easing the passage of stones.

Treatment for Large-sized Stones (Larger than 10 mm):

Kidney stones exceeding 10 mm typically necessitate surgical intervention. Common surgical options include:

1. Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS):
RIRS is a ureteroscopic procedure used to extract kidney stones by accessing the kidneys through the urethra. This minimally invasive approach involves no incisions or sutures. An optic endoscope is inserted to locate the stones, which are then fragmented into smaller particles using a laser. RIRS is often recommended for treating large and complex kidney stones.

2. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL):
PCNL is a surgical technique employed when other methods prove ineffective. During this procedure, a small incision is made in the flank area to access the stones. Microforceps are used to remove the stones or they are pulverized into smaller fragments with a laser. Contrast may be used post-procedure to ensure complete removal of stone fragments from the system.