Kidney stones are a fairly prevalent urological disease, but not every stone is equal in this regard. Of all the types of stones, those are struvite stones which are quite different in their formation, causes and consequences. Unlike the calcium stones which are common, struvite stones are associated with urinary tract infections caused by specific bacteria. These stones develop quickly, leading to large branched structures that may take up a large part of the kidney; staghorn calculi.
Struvite stones need intervention because they are not just painful; they portend other significant kidney infections. They can also have more impact on women than on men because women tend to have more UTIs. Knowledge of these stones, why they occur and how they are different from the other kidney stones is very essential in the treatment and prevention of the disease.
In today’s blog post, we will focus on the features of struvite stones, their main signs, and methods of their treatment with an emphasis on preventing a repeat occurrence. If you or a loved one have kidney stones or you simple interested in learning about this specific type, then read on.
What Exactly Are Struvite Stones?
Struvite stones is a kind of stone formed within kidneys or urinary tracts mainly chemical structure of magnesium ammonium phosphate (MgNHPO4·H2O). These stones constitute about 10% of all deployed and such stones are sometimes called infection stones. The reason? Its formation is strongly related to urinary tract infections (UTI) in bacterial origin that also produce ammonia, for example Proteus, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas.
In contrast to other types of renal stones, struvite stones are characterized by their fast growth and, therefore, can form huge irregular formations which occupy a considerable part of kidney, called staghorn calculi. They are most often observed in people, who have UTIs’ recidivism, and most commonly it affects women.
That’s why it is crucial to understand what struvite stones are since their presence means that there is an ongoing infection that requires attention and treatment because of the risks, such as kidney damage or sepsis.
Symptoms of Struvite Stones
Struvite stones may not always show noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, when they grow larger or cause complications, you might experience:
- Pain in the Back or Side: Sharp or persistent pain near the lower back or sides, often extending to the groin area.
- Frequent Urination: Increased urge to urinate, sometimes accompanied by discomfort.
- Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine: The presence of infection may cause changes in urine color and odor.
- Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): Urine may appear pink, red, or brown due to small amounts of blood.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Recurrent UTIs are a hallmark sign, often linked to the formation of struvite stones.
- Fever and Chills: Signs of infection in severe cases where the stones cause a blockage.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Can occur due to pain or infection associated with the stones.
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and timely treatment. Struvite stones require medical attention to prevent complications like kidney infections or loss of kidney function.
How Are Struvite Stones Treated?
Struvite stones require comprehensive treatment to address both the stones and the underlying infection that leads to their formation. The choice of treatment depends on the size, location, and severity of the stones. Here are the primary treatment options:
1. RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery)
- What It Is: A minimally invasive procedure where a flexible ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra to access the kidney.
- How It Works:
- The surgeon uses a laser to fragment the stone into smaller pieces.
- The fragments are then removed or allowed to pass naturally through the urinary tract.
- Why It’s Effective:
- RIRS allows precise targeting of stones without any incision.
- It is particularly beneficial for patients with smaller or moderate-sized stones.
- Recovery time is shorter compared to open surgeries.
2. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
- What It Is: A minimally invasive surgery for large or complex stones.
- How It Works:
- A small incision is made in the back to insert a nephroscope directly into the kidney.
- The stones are broken up and removed.
- Advantages: Ideal for large struvite stones that cannot be managed with other techniques.
3. Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL)
- What It Is: A non-invasive procedure using high-energy sound waves to break stones into smaller pieces.
- Who It’s For: Suitable for small or medium-sized stones.
- Limitations: Not effective for very large or hard stones.
Why RIRS Is the Preferred Method for Many Patients
RIRS has emerged as a leading treatment for struvite stones due to its minimally invasive nature and precision. It offers:
- No Incisions: The procedure is performed entirely through natural urinary pathways.
- Quick Recovery: Patients can resume normal activities faster than with traditional surgical methods.
- High Success Rate: Effective in removing stones completely with minimal discomfort.
Struvite stone treatment often combines surgical techniques with infection control to ensure long-term relief. Consultation with a urologist is crucial to determine the best approach based on individual needs.
Why Choose Cure Stone for Your Kidney Stone Treatment?
Cure Stone is a trusted name in kidney stone care, offering advanced, patient-focused treatments for all types of stones, including complex struvite stones. With state-of-the-art technology and minimally invasive techniques like RIRS, PCNL, and SWL, Cure Stone ensures effective stone removal with minimal discomfort. Our expert urologist prioritizes your safety and comfort, tailoring every treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
What sets Cure Stone apart is our commitment to excellence and personalized care. Our dedicated team guides you at every step—from the initial consultation to post-operative follow-ups—ensuring a seamless experience. We use the latest innovations to reduce hospital stays and recovery times, getting you back to your daily life faster.
At Cure Stone, you’re not just a patient—you’re part of a journey towards better health. From diagnosis to post-treatment care, we provide comprehensive support, ensuring quick recovery and long-term relief. Choose Cure Stone for precise, compassionate care that puts your well-being first.