Facing the issue of kidney stones can make you feel overwhelmed and stressed at times. This is a problem where kidney stones are formed from substances like minerals, salts, etc., in your kidneys. They can be formed in various sizes and cause various problems. This issue can occur to anyone without any warning. However, it is essential to get the right treatment with the help of the best urologist in Ludhiana.
In some cases, where kidney stones are small, they can pass out of the body naturally or by following a certain dietary regimen, but if the kidney stones are big, then they require an operative procedure or kidney stone surgery. This article will help you understand the pre- and post-operative care that is necessary to be followed by an individual who is undergoing kidney stone surgery.
What complications can be faced due to kidney stones?
Kidney stones can create a lot of complications in the regular routine of a person. However, if they are left untreated, then there is a possibility that urinary tract obstruction can occur. The common issues that can be faced during kidney stones are:
- Acute pain
- Blockage of urinary flow
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney damage
- Hydronephrosis
- Sepsis
- Recurrent kidney stones
Kidney stones: The treatment options to opt for
Kidney stones can be dealt with non-surgical treatments if the size is very small. During such treatment, certain management points can be followed, such as pain management, the use of certain medications, and watchful waiting. However, when it comes to managing kidney stones via surgery, here are some surgical options that can be opted for depending on an individual’s condition:
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: ESWL is a procedure that is considered to be non-invasive. There is involvement of shock waves in it, which is effective in breaking down the kidney stones. This further helps the stones to get out of the body via urine. If you have small or medium-sized kidney stones then this procedure is for you. However, while conducting this surgery, the stones are possibly found in the urinary tract or kidneys.
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: PCNL is also a minimally invasive process, which is mostly opted for to get rid of large or complicated stones. The surgery is carried out by making a small hole in the back, and with the help of a nephroscope, the kidney stone removal process is done.
- Open surgery : Another method is open surgery. This method is opted for when other treatments fail. This process is done by making a big incision on the individual’s back or abdomen. The big-sized kidney stones or complicated ones are then removed.
- Ureteroscopy/RIRS: URS and RIRS are other kidney stone removal surgeries where insertion of a thin scope is done via the urethra as well as the bladder. This is done to get to the kidney or the ureter. Also, lasers or baskets are highly involved in this process for kidney stone removal.
Kidney stone surgery: Pre-operative tips to be followed
Pre-operative care is all about taking the necessary measures that should be done before the surgery. The tips are effective in reducing any kind of risk that occurs during the surgery. Plus, they are beneficial for quick recovery. The surgical complications can also be avoided with these pre-op care tips. Thus, the following points should be followed religiously:
- No smoking and drinking: Before getting the kidney stone treatment or surgery, it is essential to quit smoking and reduce your alcohol intake. This needs to be done in advance so that the process can be carried out with success. The reason behind smoking hampers the respiratory system and can increase the chances of pneumonia after undergoing surgery.
- No food consumption before getting the surgery: Another thing to take care of before getting the kidney stone removal surgery is to avoid consuming anything. This is suggested by the doctors to not have anything after midnight the day before your surgery. The step needs to be followed so that the body remains safe during the anesthesia and no complications occur. Otherwise, the food in the stomach can come up as vomit during the anesthesia and result in damage to the lungs or choking.
- No drinks before getting the surgery: A few hours before the surgery, it is imperative not to have anything to drink, such as milk, a cold drink, etc. However, a few hours before the surgery, having water, tea, or black coffee is somehow safe to have. The doctors suggested avoiding drinking because it can lead to vomiting and create complications.
- Have a detailed conversation about medication: Taking blood-thinning medicines can create problems when you are opting for kidney stone surgery. This is why it is essential to get in touch with urologist and have a detailed conversation about your medication intake. Otherwise, catastrophic conditions can occur during the surgery and can even lead to loss of life.
Kidney stone surgery: Post-operative tips to be followed
For a healthy and quick recovery period, it is essential to follow the post-operative tips of kidney stone surgery. These are self-care tips that can allow you to be at ease without facing any issues, such as:
- Try to be active: When you are done with the kidney stone surgery, it is essential for your body to be active. However, it is also essential to strike a balance and try not to overdo any physical tasks. Try to show some restraint and religiously follow the instructions of the doctor to recover quickly. After getting the surgery, do not opt for a sedentary lifestyle. Ensure that you are following a light physical routine so that the recovery process becomes swift and smooth.
- Keep a check on your diet: Keeping a check on your diet is highly essential even post-surgery. Try not to indulge in smoking or drinking after a successful kidney stone surgery. Also, ensure that you are having a balanced meal and avoid having spicy food items for some days. As per the experts, it is essential to drink plenty of water every day. Avoid consuming dairy products for some days post-surgery. Ensure that you are consuming more fibre and vegetables so that your bowel movement does not get disturbed.
Conclusion
Kidney stones can be detrimental to your health. Getting kidney stone surgery at the right time is imperative. However, things do not end with the surgery option. You need to be vigilant about the before-and-after care. The kidney stone treatment in Punjab can be understood with the help of this entire information. Ensure that you are following everything religiously so that you recover quickly. Also, proper consultation with your doctor should be done at every step.
