Ureteral Obstruction & Stone Clinic

Urgent management for acute colic and obstructing kidney stones.

Understanding Obstruction

Kidney stones can block the ureter (the tube draining the kidney), causing severe pain (colic) and potential kidney damage.

Septic Stone (Fever + Obstruction): This is a medical emergency. Go to the Emergency Department immediately for IV antibiotics and urgent drainage.
Obstructing Stone (No Fever): Severe pain without fever can be managed through our clinic with scheduled stenting or stone removal.

The Management Pathway

Step 1: Assessment & Imaging

We review available imaging (CT, ultrasound) to confirm stone size and location. If imaging hasn't been done yet, we can arrange it. Note: If you have fever with obstruction or uncontrollable pain, go to the Emergency Department first for acute stabilization.

Step 2: Decompression (When Indicated)

For stones that cannot pass and are causing persistent symptoms, we can arrange ureteral stent placement to drain the kidney. This is typically scheduled within days, not same-day emergency care.

Step 3: Stone Removal

Once stable, we perform definitive management including Ureteroscopy (Laser Lithotripsy) or Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for larger renal stones. (Note: We do not offer Shockwave/ESWL at this site).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a stent uncomfortable?

Yes, ureteral stents can cause bladder irritation, urgency, and flank ache. Tolerance varies significantly between individuals. They are a temporary necessity to protect the kidney. We aim to keep them in for the shortest time specific to your case.

Will the stone pass on its own?

Stones under 5mm have a reasonable chance of passing spontaneously, though this varies by individual anatomy and stone location. Stones over 5mm or those causing unmanageable pain usually require intervention.

Refer a Patient

Physician Referral Required. Indications: Confirmed Ureteral Stone on CT/Ultrasound with pain/hydronephrosis.