Contact number: 020 7806 4060
What is Bladder Stone Surgery and Removal?
Bladder stones develop when the bladder doesn’t empty completely, causing urine to sit and minerals to harden. When urine sits in the bladder, it can form crystals, leading to stone formation. Being unable to completely empty your bladder increases the risk of stone formation. These stones can result in severe pain, urinary tract infections, dark coloured urine, or trouble when the urine passes. They may be linked to other conditions like prostate enlargement, neurogenic bladder, or bladder diverticula.
The procedure involves crushing or disintegrating the stones using telescopic instruments or laser, followed by removal of the fragments with suction apparatus. For small bladder stones, a surgeon may use ultrasound waves to break them up before flushing them out. Increasing fluid intake may help flush small bladder stones out if you can completely empty your bladder. Large bladder stones may need surgical removal through a procedure called percutaneous suprapubic cystolitholapaxy. In cases of a very large prostate, a different surgical approach may be required.
Our consultants tailor the treatment based on the size and number of stones, as well as any underlying bladder or prostate conditions that may be causing stones to form.
Bladder Stone Removal at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital
At St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, we offer consultant-led treatment for bladder stones in a calm, supportive environment.
Why choose us:
- Expert Urologists: Our team specialises in treating bladder conditions, including those caused by enlarged prostate, prostate or bladder diverticula, or neurogenic bladder.
- Modern Techniques: We use advanced tools and minimally invasive methods to remove bladder stones while keeping recovery time short. For complex cases, we offer a range of surgical procedures, including bladder surgery, to address conditions such as bladder diverticula and other bladder-related issues.
- Personalised Support: From consultation through to your follow up appointment, you’ll be supported by a dedicated medical team, including your urologist or specialist nurse.
- Accessible Location: We are based in NW8 and welcome patients from across NW3, NW6 and beyond.
We also offer advice on preventing bladder stones, including how to empty your bladder fully and increase your daily fluid intake.
Surgeons who perform Bladder Stone Removals in London
How much does private Bladder Stone Removal cost?
£3,870
Private Bladder Stone Removal costs £3,870 at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
The price shown includes all hospital related costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge. The price does not include the cost of consultation, diagnostics, or the 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.
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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.
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), within easy reach of nearby areas such as Hampstead (NW3) and Kilburn (NW6):
By Tube:
St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is just a 5-minute walk from the hospital.
By Bus:
- Wellington Road: Routes 13, 46, 82, and 113
- Circus Road: Routes 46 and 187
- Abbey Road: Routes 139 and 189
By Car:
Easily accessed from NW3 and NW6 via Finchley Road or Kilburn High Road.
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.
The surgeon inserts a thin fibreoptic tube through the urethra or makes a small incision into the bladder. Ultrasound waves transmitted through the scope may be used to break up the stone. The procedure involves crushing the stone into smaller pieces, which are then removed or flushed out. In some cases, a temporary urinary catheter may be inserted afterwards to help the urine flows normally during healing.
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.
Most people go home the same day or after a short hospital stay. You may experience some lower abdominal pain, discomfort passing urine, or light bleeding, but these tend to ease after a few days. Your surgical team will provide guidance on returning to work, driving, or physical activity, and when to remove any catheter inserted. A follow up appointment will be arranged to monitor your recovery.
- 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.
Bladder stones forming is often related to problems fully emptying your bladder, particularly if you have an enlarged prostate, neurogenic bladder, or bladder diverticula. These conditions can cause the bladder to weaken, making it more likely to develop bladder stones. When the bladder walls lose strength, urine can remain in the bladder, which causes minerals to harden and form bladder stones.
Certain medical devices like an artificial blood vessel graft or implanted foreign body can also increase the risk, as can not drinking enough fluids daily.
Yes. Preventative steps include:
- Empty your bladder fully each time
- Drinking twice as much fluid throughout the day
- Managing conditions like prostate enlargement or bladder diverticula
- Having regular checks with your urologist or specialist nurse
Preventative care is a key part of our approach, especially for patients prone to stones developing due to chronic bladder issues.
If you notice any of the above symptoms, seek medical advice promptly, as early intervention can help prevent complications.
As with any urological procedure, there are some risks, including infection, bleeding, or residual stone fragments. In rare cases, you may experience urinary incontinence, nerve damage, or delayed scar formation. These are uncommon, and our team takes steps to ensure methods minimise pain and recovery is smooth. You’ll be monitored closely during and after your procedure, and we’ll discuss alternative treatments if needed.