Advanced
Laser Lithotripsy
Surgery in Hyderabad

What is a Laser Lithotripsy?

Laser lithotripsy is an advanced, minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat stones in the kidney, ureter, or bladder. Instead of making cuts on the body, doctors use a very thin instrument called a ureteroscope, which is gently passed through the natural urinary passage (urethra → bladder → ureter → kidney).
Once the stone is located, a high-energy laser (usually Holmium: YAG or Thulium laser) is directed at it. The laser breaks the stone into very small fragments, almost like sand. These tiny pieces can then be removed with special tools or left to pass out naturally in the urine.

How Does Laser Lithotripsy Work?

Laser lithotripsy treats kidney, ureter, or bladder stones by delivering focused laser energy directly to the stone from inside the body, without any external cuts or incisions. The procedure is performed entirely through the natural urinary passage, making it a highly safe and minimally invasive option for stone removal. Before starting, the patient is given general or spinal anesthesia to ensure complete comfort and relaxation. A thin, flexible ureteroscope is then gently passed through the urethra into the bladder, ureter, or kidney, depending on the stone’s location. A high-resolution camera on the scope provides a clear, real-time view, allowing the surgeon to accurately identify the stone, assess its size and position, and protect surrounding healthy tissues.

Once the stone is clearly visualised, a fine laser fibre is guided through the scope and positioned directly on the stone. Controlled pulses from advanced Holmium: YAG or Thulium laser systems break the stone into tiny dust-like particles or small fragments, a process known as laser fragmentation or dusting. Larger pieces are removed using miniature baskets, while fine particles pass naturally in the urine over the following days. The laser’s precision ensures effective stone clearance without damaging nearby tissues. In some cases, a temporary ureteral stent may be placed to reduce swelling, maintain urine flow, and support healing, which is later removed during a short outpatient visit.

Types of Laser Lithotripsy

• Holmium: YAG Laser The most widely used laser that effectively treats almost all stone types and sizes.
• Thulium Fibre Laser (TFL): A newer, highly precise laser that breaks stones quickly into very fine dust.
• Dusting Technique: A laser method that turns stones into powder-like particles that pass naturally, ideal for small to medium stones.
• Fragmentation Technique: The laser breaks stones into removable pieces, making it suitable for larger or harder stones.
• Popcorn Technique: A laser approach is used to clear remaining fragments by gently rotating and further dusting them inside the kidney.

When Should You Consider Laser Lithotripsy?

You may need laser lithotripsy when urinary stones cause symptoms or do not pass on their own. It is recommended in the following situations:
1.Stones Not Passing Naturally
If a stone remains stuck in the kidney or ureter despite medications and hydration.
2. Severe or Persistent Pain
Ongoing flank or abdominal pain that affects daily activities.
3. Stones Causing Blockage
When the stone blocks urine flow, it leads to swelling of the kidney (hydronephrosis).
4. Large or Hard Stones
Stones too big or too dense for spontaneous passage or shockwave therapy (ESWL).
5. Recurrent Urinary Infections
Stones that repeatedly trigger infections or fever.
6. Ureteric Stones Causing Emergency Symptoms
Such as nausea, vomiting, or inability to pass urine.
7. Failure of Other Treatments
When medications or non-invasive treatments have not worked.
8. Patients Who Need Quick Relief
Laser lithotripsy offers faster stone clearance and a quicker return to routine life.