Kidney stones are among the most common — and most painful — urological problems seen in India, and they can lead to serious complications if left untreated. The good news is that with modern minimally invasive techniques, most stones can be treated quickly, with minimal pain and a fast recovery.
Dr. Devi Chauhan, Consultant Urologist at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Noida Extension, offers the full range of advanced stone-removal techniques for patients across Noida and Delhi NCR.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones form when certain minerals in the urine become highly concentrated and crystallize. Common contributing factors include:
- Low water intake, especially during hot weather
- A high-salt or high-protein diet
- High-oxalate foods such as spinach, tomatoes, and nuts
- A family history of kidney stones
- Diabetes and obesity
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
- Severe pain in the back or side (renal colic), often described as one of the worst pains a person can experience
- Blood in the urine (pink or red-tinged)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Burning sensation during urination
- Fever and chills, if infection is present
- A frequent urge to urinate
Diagnosis
At Yatharth Hospital, Dr. Chauhan relies on a combination of imaging and lab tests to confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment: a non-contrast CT scan (the gold standard for detecting stones), ultrasound for quick bedside evaluation, urine analysis to check for infection or crystals, and kidney function blood tests to assess any impact on kidney health.
Modern Kidney Stone Treatment Options
1. RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) — best for stones up to 2cm
A flexible laser scope is passed through the natural urinary tract without any incision, and the stone is broken into fine fragments using a laser. This is typically a daycare procedure, with most patients going home the same day or the following morning.
2. PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy) — best for larger stones above 2cm
A small puncture in the back allows direct access to remove the stone. Mini-PCNL is an even less invasive variation for select cases. Recovery typically involves 2–3 days in hospital.
3. ESWL (Shockwave Lithotripsy) — a non-invasive option
High-energy shockwaves delivered from outside the body break the stone into smaller pieces that pass naturally. It works best for smaller stones and requires no anaesthesia or incision.
4. URS (Ureteroscopy) — for stones in the ureter
A thin scope is passed through the ureter to laser-fragment and remove stones that are stuck on their way down from the kidney.
5. Medical Expulsion Therapy
For very small stones, medication combined with high fluid intake can help the stone pass naturally, under medical supervision.
How to Prevent Kidney Stones
- Drink at least 3–4 litres of water daily, especially in summer
- Reduce salt intake
- Limit high-oxalate foods like spinach, nuts, and chocolate
- Avoid excessive vitamin C supplementation
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Follow up regularly with a urologist if you've had stones before
Suffering from Kidney Stone Pain?
Don't wait it out — consult Dr. Devi Chauhan for expert, minimally invasive kidney stone treatment in Noida.
Book Appointment Now
Dr. Devi Chauhan
Consultant Urologist with 8+ years of experience, seeing patients at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Noida Extension and AMRITAM Urology and Health Care Clinic, Noida. Focused on clear communication and patient-first care.