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Everything You Need to Know
Bladder stone removal is a safe and effective procedure aimed at removing stones from the bladder, providing relief from pain and improving urinary function. This procedure is essential when bladder stones become too large to pass naturally or are causing recurrent urinary tract infections. Bladder stone surgery, such as transurethral cystolitholapaxy and open cystostomy, can have complications, including urinary tract infections.
Key benefits of bladder stone removal include:
- Pain Relief: Removing the stones eliminates the discomfort associated with bladder stones.
- Restored Urinary Function: The procedure helps restore normal urinary flow and reduces the risk of further urinary complications.
- Preventing Future Problems: Untreated bladder stones can lead to infections and kidney damage, making removal essential for long-term health.
- Reduced Risk of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections: Removing bladder stones can significantly lower the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections.
Bladder stone removal can be performed using different techniques depending on the size and number of stones, with the aim of providing effective relief and preventing recurrence.
Before the Surgery
Consultation
Before bladder stone removal surgery, you will have a consultation with one of our specialist urologists. A urine test may be conducted to check for signs of infection or other bladder issues. During this session, your symptoms, medical history, and any previous treatments will be reviewed. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, may be conducted to assess the size and location of the stones, and to confirm the diagnosis.
Health Assessment and Urine Test
A complete health assessment will be carried out to ensure you are in good condition for surgery. Conditions like an enlarged prostate and neurogenic bladder will also be considered during the assessment. This may involve blood tests, a review of your current medications, and a thorough physical examination. If you have any pre-existing conditions, such as kidney issues, these will be carefully considered in planning your surgery.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
To ensure a smooth procedure and recovery, you will be given pre-operative instructions, which may include:
- Medication Adjustments: Your doctor may advise stopping certain medications, such as blood thinners, in the days leading up to surgery.
- Fasting Instructions: You will need to fast from midnight on the day of the surgery.
- Lifestyle Recommendations: It’s important to maintain good hydration and follow any other dietary advice given by your doctor to reduce the risk of further stone formation. Drinking plenty of water can help flush small bladder stones, although this may not be effective for everyone, especially those who cannot completely empty their bladder of urine.
During the Bladder Stone Surgery
Our experienced surgical team will ensure that your bladder stone removal is carried out with precision and care in our state-of-the-art facility.
Anaesthesia
Bladder stone removal is typically performed under general or regional anaesthesia, depending on the size of the stones and the method used to remove them. General anaesthesia will put you to sleep during the procedure, while regional anaesthesia will numb the lower part of your body.
Surgical Process
There are two primary techniques for bladder stone removal:
- Cystolitholapaxy: This is the most common method, where a thin tube with a camera (cystoscope) is inserted into the bladder through the urethra. The stones are then broken up using a laser or ultrasound and removed.
- Cystolithotomy: For larger stones, a small incision may be made in the lower abdomen to access the bladder directly and remove the stones. Bladder diverticula may also be addressed during bladder surgery.
The choice of procedure depends on the size, number, and location of the stones. The process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Bladder surgery is sometimes necessary to remove bladder stones when other methods are ineffective.
Monitoring and Recovery
After surgery, you will be closely monitored in the recovery area to ensure there are no immediate complications. Pain relief will be administered as necessary, and you will remain in the hospital until the medical team is satisfied with your initial recovery.
Follow-up care is crucial to monitor for any signs of developing bladder stones, as conditions like prostate enlargement, neurogenic bladder, cystocele, and bladder diverticula can increase the risk by preventing complete emptying of the bladder.
After Surgery
Aftercare is a critical part of your recovery, and our team will provide you with all the support and guidance you need to ensure a smooth recovery.
Immediate Post-Op Care
You may experience some mild discomfort or a burning sensation when urinating for a few days after the procedure, but this will gradually subside. Drinking plenty of water can help flush small bladder stones from the bladder, although it may not be effective for everyone. You will be given pain relief medication and detailed instructions on how to care for the surgical site (if an incision was made) or manage any side effects. It’s essential to drink plenty of water to help flush out any remaining fragments of stones and to reduce the risk of infection.
Follow-Up Care and Recovery
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and ensure that all stones have been successfully removed. Your urologist will also discuss preventive measures, such as dietary changes and increased fluid intake, to reduce the risk of new bladder stones forming. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week, though strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least two weeks
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Initial Consultation
Your care starts with a thorough consultation where our urology specialists will review your symptoms and medical history to determine the best treatment plan for your bladder stones. During this initial consultation, conditions like bladder diverticula and neurogenic bladder will also be considered
Personalised Treatment Plan
Based on the findings from your consultation, a personalised treatment plan will be created. This will outline the type of bladder stone removal procedure and provide you with detailed pre- and post-operative advice.
Pre-Procedure Assessment
Before your surgery, you will undergo a pre-assessment to confirm your overall health. A urine test may be conducted to check for bladder issues. Blood tests and imaging will be carried out to ensure you are fit for the procedure.
The Procedure
Bladder stone removal will be carried out by our expert surgical team, ensuring a safe and effective removal of the stones using the latest technology and techniques. The procedure may involve the removal of large bladder stones and the potential need for bladder surgery, depending on the severity and complications associated with the stones.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following surgery, you will receive comprehensive aftercare instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and discuss strategies to prevent future stone formation. It is crucial to follow these guidelines to avoid new bladder stones forming and to address any underlying causes, especially if you have a history of urinary tract infections.
Top Tips for after bladder stone surgery
- Follow All Instructions: Make sure to follow the aftercare advice provided by your surgeon to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out any remaining stone fragments and prevents new stones from forming.
- Flush Small Bladder Stones: Staying hydrated can help flush small bladder stones from the bladder. However, this method may not be effective for individuals who are unable to completely empty their bladder of urine, and surgical intervention might often be necessary for stone removal.
- Monitor Symptoms: Report any unusual pain, difficulty urinating, or signs of infection (such as fever) to your doctor immediately.