Ureteric Calculus Removal Methods Explained
Explore various effective ureteric calculus (kidney stone) removal methods, from non-invasive approaches like ESWL and ureteroscopy to surgical options. Understand how these procedures work and which might be suitable for you.
Dealing with ureteric calculus (commonly known as a kidney stone stuck in the ureter) can be extremely painful and stressful. If you or a loved one is facing this issue, understanding the available treatment options can help ease anxiety and guide you toward the right solution.
In this article, we’ll explain:
What ureteric calculus is
Common symptoms
Why it happens
Different removal methods
Tips to prevent future stones
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What is Ureteric Calculus?
The ureter is a narrow tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Sometimes, small, hard mineral deposits (kidney stones) form in the kidney and travel down into the ureter. When a stone gets stuck, it causes blockage and severe pain—this is called ureteric calculus.
Common Symptoms
Intense pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
Painful urination
Blood in urine (pink, red, or brown urine)
Nausea & vomiting
Frequent urge to urinate
Fever & chills (if infection is present)
If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Why Do Ureteric Stones Happen?
Stones form when urine contains too many crystalforming substances (like calcium, oxalate, or uric acid) and not enough fluid to dilute them. Common causes include:
Dehydration (not drinking enough water)
High salt or high protein diet
Family history of kidney stones
Certain medical conditions (like gout or UTIs)
Obesity or digestive diseases
Consult Top Kidney Specialists
How Are Ureteric Stones Removed?
The treatment depends on the stone’s size, location, and severity of symptoms. Here are the most common removal methods:
1. Wait & Watch (for Small Stones)
Stones < 5mm often pass on their own with:
Drinking plenty of water (34 liters/day)
Pain relievers (like ibuprofen)
Alphablockers (medicines that relax the ureter)
Timeframe: May take a few days to weeks.
2. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
Best for: Small to medium stones (510mm)
How it works:
Sound waves break the stone into tiny pieces.
These fragments then pass naturally in urine.
Procedure: Nonsurgical, done under mild sedation.
Recovery: Usually quick, with minimal discomfort.
3. Ureteroscopy (URS) with Laser Lithotripsy
Best for: Larger or stubborn stones.
How it works:
A thin scope (ureteroscope) is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter.
A laser breaks the stone, and fragments are removed.
Recovery: Fast, with possible mild discomfort.
4. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Best for: Very large stones (>2cm) or when other methods fail.
How it works:
A small incision in the back allows a tube to reach the kidney.
The stone is broken and removed directly.
Recovery: Requires a short hospital stay.
5. Open or Laparoscopic Surgery (Rarely Needed)
Used only in complex cases where other methods aren’t suitable.
How Can You Prevent Future Stones?
Once a stone passes or is removed, prevention is key to avoid recurrence:
Drink 3-4 liters of water daily (clear/light yellow urine = good hydration)
Reduce salt & processed foods (high sodium increases stone risk)
Eat calcium-rich foods (but avoid calcium supplements unless prescribed)
Limit oxalate-rich foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate) if prone to oxalate stones
Cut down on animal protein (red meat, poultry, seafood)
Regular checkups if you have a history of stones
When to See a Doctor?
Seek immediate medical help if you have:
Severe pain that doesn’t improve with painkillers
Fever & chills (sign of infection)
Inability to urinate
Persistent vomiting
Early treatment prevents complications like kidney damage or infections.
Need Help? Book a Consultation Today!
If you suspect a ureteric stone, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Apollo 24|7 offers expert urology consultations and advanced stone removal procedures.
Call now or book an appointment online to get the right treatment fast!
Final Thoughts
Ureteric stones can be painful, but modern treatments make removal easier than ever. With the right care and prevention, you can reduce the risk of future stones. Stay hydrated, eat wisely, and consult a doctor if symptoms arise.
Consult Top Kidney Specialists
Consult Top Kidney Specialists
Dr. Sanjay Maitra
Nephrologist
24 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), DM (Nephro)
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Manju Kamal
Nephrologist
12 Years • MBBS,MD(General Medicine), DNB,DM(Nephrology)
Angamaly
Apollo Hospitals Karukutty, Angamaly
Dr. Kity Sarkar
Nephrologist
15 Years • MBBS,MD(Genl. Med.), DrNB(NEPHROLOGY)
Kolkata
Dr. Kity Sarkar's Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Yashavanth Kumar K Y
Nephrologist
4 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DNB Nephrology
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Krishna V Patil
Nephrologist
16 Years • MBBS, MD(Med), DM(Nephrology), FICN(Canada), Fellow of American Society of Nephrology
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
