In cases where the stones are unusually large or if there’s persistent pain, blockage, or infection, surgery is the best option. As with any operation, aftercare is one of the important stages in the process, and ensuring adequate recovery time is an essential factor to consider. But the amount of rest that is needed will differ based on the type of surgery conducted and individual health aspects.
The goal of this blog is to go through, in detail, the steps that are required in order for one to recuperate after going through different kidney stone procedures.
Different Types of Kidney Stone Surgeries and Their Recovery Periods
Apart from open surgery, there are other ways that can be used to take care of and treat kidney s stones. The primary procedures include Shock wave lithotripsy, Ureteroscopy, Retrograde intrarenal surgery, and Nephrolithotomy.
1. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
ESWL is the most common procedure performed. This method does not require any cuts to the body as it employs the use of strong shock waves to break kidney stones into small parts that can be released from the body through urine.
- No incisions are made, and the procedure is performed under mild sedation or anesthesia.
- Most patients go home on the same day of the procedure with light activities being able to be resumed within 1-2 days and full recovery usually taking about a week.
- It is recommended to avoid strenuous activities 3-5 days after the procedure to allow for proper rest. Make sure to drink plenty of water to aid in flushing out any stone fragments.
- Patients may also experience mild discomfort, bruising, or blood in the urine, which should subside within a few days.
2. Ureteroscopy (URS) with Laser Lithotripsy
This procedure is performed with low invasion arthroscopy in a way that involves a thin, flexible tube, also called a ureteroscope, being inserted through the urethra to locate the stone.
For removal purposes, the laser will suffice to break the stone into smaller pieces.
If need be, a stent can also be temporarily placed during the procedure to enable a smoother flow of urine after the surgical process.
Rest Timeline:
- After a short duration in the hospital, patients can be discharged and continue their recovery at home.
- Furthermore, a burning sensation during urination and mild pain is also common along with increased frequency of urination and can last for a few days.
- If a stent is placed to the patient during the serial procedure, discomfort may linger to some extent till it is removed, which is usually done within a duration of 2 weeks.
- Most patients are able to return back to work within 3-5 days. Depending on how much discomfort the patient feels, they are able to resume work.
Post-Procedure Rest Guidelines:
- Prior to returning to normal activities, allow a 3 to 5 day resting period. Postoperative activity should be gradually increased.
- At least a week of rest from physically demanding activities, such as lifting weights and vigorous exercise should be observed.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake to aid in stone fragment removal.
3. Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS)
In RIRS, a flexible ureteroscope is introduced through the urethra to gain access to the kidney. In RIRS, and during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), the kidney is treated with a low invasive or no invasive technic.
The kidney stones are fragmented and removed during the procedure. Dust or small fragments are either captured by a collecting bag or left to be excreted in urine.
This method is applicable to small and medium-sized stones within the kidney and is of very efficient use.
Recovery Timeline:
- Most patients are discharged in less than 24 hours.
- Discomfort in the bladder as well as some pain is common for 2 to 3 days.
- Discomfort might continue for a longer duration, especially if a stent has been placed. It is usually removed in one to two weeks.
- Most patients are capable of going back to daily work after 4 to 5 days.
Rest Recommendations:
- Withholding strenuous exercise for at least a week is advised.
- Drinking excess fluids is advised to aid in stone fragment elimination.
- For patients who have had a stent placed in the bladder should restrain from vigorous exercise until the stent is removed.
4. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
PCNL is performed for patients with larger kidney stones unsuitable for ESWL or URS as it uses endoscopy to extract the stones.
The stone is removed through a small incision in the back where a nephroscope is inserted.
The patient will be kept in the hospital for two days post-op after being administered general anesthesia for the surgery.
Recovery Timeline:
- Before participating in physical activities, a bulk of patients need to rest for a week.
- Depending on how complicated the surgery was, complete recovery may be between two to four weeks.
- At the incision site, soreness and pain are expected, but the discomfort should slowly lessen over time.
Rest Recommendations:
- To ensure proper healing, a minimum rest period of ten days is recommended.
- For deeper cuts, ensure no heavy lifting or overly intense activities are performed for 3 weeks.
- To reduce the chances of infection, proper care of the wound is critical.
Important Considerations for faster Recovery
The rehabilitation phase is not standard and it will depend on the factors listed below:
Size and Location of the Stone – While bigger stones might need more invasive techniques that lead to longer times of recovery.
Presence of a Stent – As long as a stent is in place, discomfort can still be felt until it is removed.
General Health Condition – Patients with already existent health issues like diabetes or kidney disease are likely to take longer.
Hydration Levels – A person recovering from such a surgery has to use proper fluid intake to prevent further complications and passing those stone remnants as fast as possible.
Aftercare Tips to Accelerate Healing of Surgical Sites
Below are some Aftercare Tips to Accelerate Healing of Surgical Sites
1. Post Operative hydration
Drink minimally 2 liters or more of water on any given day to wash away pieces of stones remaining behind.
Cut down on the consumption of caffeine, carbonated and sugary drinks to prevent stones.
2. Pain relief and Discomfort symptoms
Maintain the dosage of pain relief medicines given by the physician as instructed.
Moderate discomfort but not severe can be fixed through the use of heat packs.
3. Eat nutritious foods
Pay close attention to changes in their diet such as unnatural shirt gaining/loss, feeling fatigued often, or nausea.
If they do experience any of the following symptoms such as high fever, chills, excuse me, hot feeling at night during sleep or something else along the lines, heavy blood in urine or loss of control over one’s bladder, medication does nothing for moderatte pain non stop, and does nothing for severe pain.
4. It is essential to cut back on salt intake
Maintain a well rounded diet, and steer clear of high-oxalate containing spinach, beets, or even chocolate.
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5. Avoid Rigorous Workouts
Avoiding heavy lifting, running, or any strenuous workouts for a certain period of time is great advice.
Consistent check ups recomend to monitor and ensure both proper healing and no stones are present afterwards.
Final Thoughts: CureStone is Your Spot For Expert Care
The final stage of recovery focuses on ensuring maximum rest during the first few days.
At CureStone, we will provide you with the highest quality treatment during your kidney stone procedure. We will attend to you personally under Dr. Deepanshu Gupta, an experienced urologist. With our advanced devices, your recovery will be efficient, effective, and most importantly, comfortable for you. Your health is of utmost importance to us.
We offer full cycle care from diagnosis to post-treatment follow-ups. Our experienced staff along with our advanced facilities ensure that you will recieve treatment and follow up care that gives you long term relief.
As one of Gurgaron’s finest urologist, Dr. Deepanshu Gupta offers advanced kidney stone treatments that are minimally invasive which guarantee optimal recovery and long term kidney health.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Deepanshu Gupta today to receive expert and compassionate care.