Contact number: 020 7806 4010
Contact number: 020 7078 3831
What is laser kidney stone removal?
Laser kidney stone removal, or laser lithotripsy, is a procedure that uses a fine laser to break kidney stones into tiny fragments that can be passed naturally. This technique is performed using a ureteroscope, a thin instrument inserted through the urinary tract, to access the stone without the need for external incisions.
This minimally invasive method is effective for stones of various sizes and locations within the urinary system. It is typically recommended for stones that cause severe pain, infection risks, or urinary blockages.
Located in St John’s Wood (NW8), our hospital offers laser kidney stone removal with modern technology and a focus on patient comfort.
Larger kidney stones can cause several symptoms, including:
- Severe pain that comes and goes (almost always on one side)
- Pain near the groin, pelvis, or abdomen
- Pain whilst urinating
- Blood in your pee
- Urine that smells bad or looks cloudy
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever and chills
Laser Kidney Stone Removal at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital
Our doctors use a Thulium Fiber Laser to rapidly disintegrate stones into very fine sand (rather than small particles which is the case with other laser technology). This means less pain for the patient, a faster operating time, and a more comfortable recovery.
It also means that in the case of multiple large stones, these can be all dealt with quickly (under one hour), in one go, rather than two separate treatments. In most cases, patients will go home the same day and can be back at work as soon as the next day.
Why choose us for laser kidney stone removal?
- Expert Urologists: Our team has extensive experience in performing laser lithotripsy, ensuring precise and efficient care.
- Minimally Invasive Approach: Laser treatment avoids the need for surgical incisions, reducing recovery times and discomfort.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: We use advanced technology to deliver accurate diagnosis and treatment in a comfortable setting.
- Accessible Location: Conveniently based in NW8, we serve patients from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6), and the wider London area.
Our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve relief from kidney stones and supporting your journey to recovery.
How Much Does Private Laser Kidney Stone Removal Cost?
£5,495
The price shown includes all costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge.
Doesn’t include surgeon or anaesthetist fee.
Our hospital fee is guaranteed at the price quoted and valid for one month from the date issued, subject to pre-assessment.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Kidney Stone Removal
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), a well-connected area of North West London. We are conveniently accessible for patients from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6), and the surrounding areas.
By Tube:
- St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is just a 5-minute walk from the hospital.
- Finchley Road (NW3) and Kilburn stations (NW6) on the Jubilee Line provide excellent connections.
By Bus:
- Wellington Road: Routes 13, 46, 82, and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station, just a short walk from the hospital.
- Circus Road: Routes 46 and 187 stop close to the hospital’s Circus Road entrance.
- Abbey Road: Routes 139 and 189 stop near the junction where Grove End Road becomes Abbey Road, providing easy access.
Major Roads:
If you’re travelling from NW3 or NW6, major routes such as Finchley Road or Kilburn High Road offer a direct approach to the hospital.
Our hospital’s location ensures convenient access for patients across London, particularly those in NW8, NW3, and NW6 postcodes.
Kidney stones can be made of different substances:
Calcium oxalate: These stones are the most common (around 80%). There are many reasons for these developing, including:
- Not drinking enough water
- Eating a diet that’s too high in protein, salt, or sugar
- Being overweight
- Having a digestive disease such as IBD, Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis
- Having had weight loss surgery
Uric acid: Uric acid is a waste product that forms when your body breaks down chemicals called purines. If you have high levels of uric acid, crystals form, which combine with other substances to create a stone. These stones tend to run in families, but are also linked to:
- Chemotherapy
- Conditions such as obesity and Type 2 diabetes
- A diet high in salt and sugar
- Weight loss surgery
- Taking certain medications, such as diuretics and immune suppressants
Struvite: Struvite stones are not that common and are related to chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs). Some bacteria make the urine less acidic and more alkaline. Struvite stones can form in alkaline urine. These stones are often large and grow very quickly.
Cystine: These are caused by a rare genetic disorder called cystinuria which causes a substance called Cystine to leak into your urine. Cystine is an insoluble amino acid, so it doesn’t break down, but clumps together into stones instead. These tend to be larger than other stones and will keep recurring, so this condition needs lifelong management. These stones often start forming in young adulthood, but some people will get them when they’re still children or even babies.
Yes, kidney stones can be effectively treated with laser lithotripsy. This minimally invasive procedure uses a laser to break stones into smaller fragments, making them easier to pass naturally or remove. It is suitable for stones of various sizes and locations.
Your first step is to book an appointment with one of our consultant urologists. They will discuss your symptoms, run any necessary tests, and determine the best approach for treating your kidney stones.
This procedure typically uses a Thulium Fibre laser and is done endoscopically under a short general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep. A long, flexible tube with a tiny camera, called a ureteroscope, is inserted through the urethra, travels up to the bladder, and into the ureter to locate the kidney stones. The stones are then broken down into fine sand, which is later sent for analysis to identify the stone’s chemical composition. The surgery usually takes under an hour.
A stent may be placed between your kidney and urethra to promote healing and help urine particles pass more easily. While it helps with drainage, the stent can cause discomfort, including a frequent urge to urinate, some blood in the urine, or a feeling of pressure. If a stent is fitted, it will be removed in a follow-up appointment.
Laser kidney stone removal typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on the size and location of the stones. It is usually performed as a day-case procedure, meaning most patients can go home the same day.
Once you wake up, your kidney stone pain should be gone, though there may still be some discomfort, especially if a stent has been placed. You’ll rest at the hospital for a few hours before going home, so make sure someone is available to take you, as you won’t be able to drive. Drinking plenty of water is encouraged to flush out any remaining particles from the kidney. You may need to urinate more frequently, so it’s best to stay near a bathroom.
Most patients return to their daily activities the day after surgery. However, if a stent is in place, avoid high-intensity exercise until it’s removed. A follow-up appointment will take place 1–2 weeks post-surgery to remove the stent (if one was used) and discuss your recovery. Your doctor will also go over the stone analysis results and, if needed, recommend lifestyle changes or treatments to help prevent future kidney stones.
Recovery from laser kidney stone removal is generally quick. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days. Your consultant will provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and help prevent the formation of future stones.
Laser kidney stone removal is performed under anaesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Some mild discomfort may be experienced afterwards, such as cramping or a burning sensation during urination, but this typically resolves within a few days.
Laser kidney stone removal, or laser lithotripsy, involves inserting a thin ureteroscope through the urinary tract to locate the stone. A laser fibre is then used to fragment the stone into tiny pieces, which can pass naturally or be removed. This precise method avoids external incisions and promotes faster recovery.