Bladder Stones
Alternate Names : Bladder Calculi
What are the treatments for the condition?
Many bladder stones can be dissolved with chemicals that are put into the
bladder. But this is such a long and difficult process that it is rarely done.
Surgical therapy is generally preferred.
Most bladder stones are removed in one of these ways:
by breaking up the stones using a variety of energy sources and then
removing the pieces through a cystoscope
by breaking up the stones and removing them with tools that are inserted
through a cystoscope
using open surgery, which is often done for very large stones
What are the side effects of the treatments?
The process of breaking up bladder stones and removing them with a cystoscope
is often traumatic to the bladder. Blood in the urine can be expected for 1 to
2 weeks afterwards. Urinating may be somewhat uncomfortable during this time.
Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia. Tearing of the bladder or abnormal urine
leakage is also possible, though rare.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
After recovery, most people can return to normal activities.
How is the condition monitored?
Follow-up exams are performed, and symptoms are followed. X-ray tests and
laboratory tests may also be needed to monitor this condition in some cases.
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare
provider.
|