Kidney stones are small, hard crystals formed when salts in urine build up and stick together. They can stay in the kidney or travel to the ureter, sometimes causing severe pain. Most stones are calcium-based but others can be caused by uric acid, infection or rare genetic conditions.
Kidney stones are very common and, with the right treatment and prevention advice, are highly manageable.
At the London Urology Collective, we offer rapid access to specialist assessment for kidney stone patients. Our experts provide accurate diagnoses, same-day imaging where needed, and evidence-based treatment tailored to you. We aim to offer all treatment options according to national guidelines.
The causes of kidney stones include
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Not drinking enough water
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A high salt or animal protein diet
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Being overweight or having diabetes
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A family history of stones
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Certain medications
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Low dietary calcium
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Recurrent urine infections
What to expect during your consultation?
During your consultation, you’ll have a thorough and discreet assessment including:
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A detailed discussion of your symptoms and medical history
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An appropriate examination
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A urine test
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Blood tests
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Ultrasound or CT KUB to assess kidney stone burden
Treatment options include
Medical management: Some stones can pass naturally with pain relief, hydration and medications that relax the kidney tube.
ESWL (Shock Wave Treatment) is a non-invasive procedure using shock waves to break stones into smaller pieces that pass naturally. It’s ideal for small to medium-sized stones.
Ureteroscopy (URS) involves passing a fine telescope through the urinary tract to reach and laser the stone. It’s highly effective for stones up to 15mm.
PCNL (Keyhole Surgery) requires a small incision in the back for direct access to remove large or complex stones. It’s best suited for stones too big for other treatments.
Prevention planning involves specialists advising on diet, hydration and metabolic testing to minimise the risk of future stones.
What to expect during your consultation?
During your consultation, you’ll have a thorough and discreet assessment including:
-
A detailed discussion of your symptoms and medical history
-
An appropriate examination
-
A urine test
-
Blood tests
-
Ultrasound or CT KUB to assess kidney stone burden
Choosing the Right Kidney Stone Treatment
Understanding the differences between PCNL, Ureteroscopy (URS) and ESWL can help you choose the most effective treatment for your kidney stone. Each procedure offers unique benefits depending on the size, location and complexity of your stone. The quick comparison below provides a clear, patient-friendly overview to help you make an informed decision and find the treatment that best suits your needs.
Feature | PCNL | Ureteroscopy (URS) | ESWL |
|---|---|---|---|
Best for | Large or complex kidney stones | Stones ≤ 15 mm (kidney or ureter) | Small–medium kidney stones |
Procedure type | Keyhole surgery | Endoscopic (via natural urinary passage) | Non-invasive shock wave treatment |
Anaesthetic | General | General | Usually none (or light sedation) |
Incisions | 1 cm incision in the flank | No incisions | No incisions |
Stone removal | Fragmented and extracted directly | Laser breaks stone; fragments removed or pass naturally | Shock waves fragment stone to pass naturally |
Hospital stay | 1–3 days | Same-day or overnight | Outpatient |
Recovery time | 1–2 weeks | 2–5 days | 1–2 days |
Success rate | Highest for large stones | Very high for stones ≤ 15 mm | Lower than URS, varies by stone type/location |
Ideal candidates | Large, multiple or complex stones | Most small–medium stones | Suitable smaller stones in kidney/upper ureter |
When to Seek Specialist Advice
You may benefit from a consultation if you experience:
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Flank pain
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Blood in the urine
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Repeated urine infections
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A stone that hasn’t passed after several weeks
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A history of multiple stones
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A stone larger than 5–6 mm
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Concerns about preventing future stones
Early assessment can provide reassurance and allow timely treatment where needed.
Why Choose London Urology Collective
We combine leading clinical experience with up-to-date knowledge of both established and innovative therapies. All treatment options are discussed clearly, allowing you to make an informed choice that best fits your needs and long-term health.