Kidney stones are a common health concern, and finding effective kidney stone treatment in Singapore is essential for relief. The excruciating pain they cause can be debilitating, but there are advanced treatment options available to address this issue effectively. This article explores kidney stones treatment in Singapore, including both non-surgical and surgical approaches. We’ll discuss how to manage the condition and find relief, whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or require a more advanced procedure.
The Agony of Kidney Stones: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Kidney stones form when minerals and salts in the urine crystallize and clump together. These stones can lodge anywhere in the urinary tract, causing excruciating pain as they pass. Some common symptoms of kidney stones include:
- Severe pain in the lower back or abdomen that radiates to the groin
- Blood in the urine
- Painful urination
- Frequent urination
- Nausea and vomiting
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s crucial to see a urologist in Singapore for a proper diagnosis. They will likely conduct a physical examination, urine tests, and imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans to confirm the presence and location of the stones.
Non-Surgical Kidney Stone Treatment in Singapore
Kidney stone treatment in Singapore includes a range of non-surgical approaches, making it possible to remove smaller stones naturally or with minimally invasive procedures. Treatment depends on their size and composition. This article answers the frequently asked question; is it possible to remove kidney stones without operation and what is the safest procedure for kidney stone removal? Keep reading;
Passing Small Stones Naturally with Lifestyle Changes
Yes, it is possible to remove kidney stones without surgery. Kidney stone treatment without surgery is often considered when the stones are small and likely to pass on their own, you can tolerate the pain, and no sign of infection or blockage requires immediate intervention.
Several approaches may be adopted for your kidney stone removal without surgery. Key among them include;
Endoscopic Kidney Stone Treatment in Singapore
Just as the name suggests, this method involves using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera, and tools, to locate and remove or break up the stone. During this procedure, a urologist carefully inserts an endoscope is inserted through the urethra, into the bladder, and then to the stone’s location.
This procedure is effective for stones that are difficult to pass naturally. It is minimally invasive and can be done under local or general anesthesia.
ESWL: A Non-Invasive Kidney Stone Treatment in Singapore
ESWL is a popular kidney stone treatment in Singapore, offering a non-invasive option for breaking down stones without surgery. ESWL uses ultrasound waves to break the kidney stone into smaller fragments. These small fragments can then pass out of the body with urine. This treatment is suitable for stones that are less than 2 cm in size. ESWL is a non-invasive procedure, meaning there is no need for incisions. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis and does not require a hospital stay.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) – Minimally Invasive and Highly Effective
This procedure is used for larger stones that cannot be effectively treated with ESWL. A small incision is made in the patient’s back, and a nephroscope, a tube-like instrument with a camera, is inserted into the kidney.
The nephroscope will locate and remove the stone. The percutaneous nephrolithotomy method is more invasive than ESWL but is highly effective for large stones.
Lifestyle Changes and Dietary Recommendations
Along with medical therapies, lifestyle adjustments can also help manage kidney stones. And the best part is that if observed keenly, they can actually prevent the recurrence of kidney stones.
Some key lifestyle modifications include regular exercise, avoiding triggers such as high-sodium and high-oxalate foods, and maintaining a healthy weight. These changes can promote the body’s natural stone removal process and reduce the risk of developing new stones.
Safest Kidney Stone Treatment in Singapore
Kidney stone removal can sound a little complex. So if you’re recommended the procedure, a fairly common question that may naturally come to mind is; what is the safest method of kidney stone removal?
When it comes to kidney stone removal, Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is regarded as the safest choice for kidney stone removal. This is largely due to its high stone-free rates and minimally invasive nature.
Despite its safety, like any procedure, PCNL carries rare but potential risks. Common PCNL risks include; bleeding, urine leakage, and injury to the pelvicalyceal system.
The good news is that these risks are manageable with proper perioperative care. Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks with you beforehand and any concerns or questions you may have.
It is best that you’re informed about the possible outcomes to ensure that you are in a good position to make educated decisions about your treatment and better prepare mentally and emotionally for the surgery.
Preparing for Kidney Stone Removal Surgery (if applicable)
If you fancy PCNL, now you must be wondering; how do you prepare for PCNL surgery? A good provider will walk you through the preparation beforehand but here’s a quick summary of what you may want to know nonetheless;
Preoperative Testing
Before undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy, your healthcare team will conduct various tests to assess your health and the specifics of your kidney stones. Urine and blood tests help detect signs of infection or other underlying issues.
Also, a computerized tomography (CT) may be used to scan precisely and identify the location of the stones within your kidney. These tests provide essential information for planning the procedure and ensuring its success.
Dietary and Medication Adjustments
Your surgeon may instruct you to refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight on the night before your PCNL surgery. It’s crucial to follow these instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications during the procedure.
Also, please inform your care team about all medications, vitamins, and dietary supplements you’re currently taking. Depending on your specific situation, you may need to temporarily discontinue certain medications before surgery to reduce the risk of adverse effects.
Hygiene and Infection Prevention
Proper hygiene is very important for reducing the risk of postoperative infections. Follow any guidelines provided by your healthcare team regarding preoperative skin preparation and showering with antibacterial soap.
And most importantly, your surgeon may prescribe antibiotics before the procedure to further decrease the likelihood of infection. Please adhere to these hygiene practices and take prescribed medications as directed to ensure a smoother recovery and minimize the risk of complications following PCNL surgery.
Conclusion: Finding Relief from Kidney Stone in Singapore
It is possible to remove kidney stones without surgery. Also, some treatments offer very high success rates like PCNL surgery, for example.
The most important thing is to consult with a skilled provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the size and location of the kidney stones.
If you’re in Singapore, Aare Urocare is a top option. Schedule an appointment now;
Aare Urocare – One-Stop Incontinence Centre | Dr. Fiona Wu | Kidney Stones Removal | UTI Vaccine Singapore
6 Napier Rd, #10-06 Gleneagles Medical Centre, Singapore 258499 // +65 6252 4681
