More than 1 in 10 people will experience a kidney stone at some point in their life. In fact, about 12% of Americans will develop kidney stones, with men being nearly twice as likely as women to be affected.
Kidney stones are hard mineral or waste deposits—usually made of calcium or uric acid—that form in the kidneys. They vary in size from a grain of salt to a kernel of corn and can be brown or yellow, smooth or rough. Stones form when the body has too much of certain substances and not enough fluid to dilute them. Some pass naturally, but others may cause significant pain or complications, requiring medical or surgical intervention.
“Diet, excess body weight, medical conditions, and certain supplements or medications can all contribute to the formation of kidney stones,” explains Brent Zamzow, DO, urologist at West Tennessee Medical Group. “Stones can form anywhere along the urinary tract, and symptoms often begin when the stone starts to move.”
When Do Kidney Stones Require Surgery?
Most small stones can pass with hydration, time, and medication. However, 10–20% of kidney stones require surgical removal due to:
Severe or persistent pain
Obstruction of urine flow
Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Stones too large to pass naturally
“Surgery is typically recommended for stones 0.5 cm or larger, or when conservative treatments fail,” says Dr. Zamzow.
Surgical Treatment Options for Kidney Stones
Modern surgical options are minimally invasive and highly effective. Here are the four main procedures used:
1. Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL)
Most common treatment in the U.S.
Best for small to medium stones
Uses sound waves to break stones into smaller pieces that can be passed in urine
Typically an outpatient procedure, lasting about an hour
May require repeat treatments
2. Ureteroscopy
No incisions; performed using a small scope through the urethra and bladder
Ideal for stones in the ureters or kidneys
Stones are either removed using a basket or broken up with a laser
Most patients go home the same day
3. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Used for large or multiple kidney stones
Involves a small incision in the back to access and remove stones directly
Requires hospital stay and a temporary stent to aid drainage
Follow-up imaging may be needed
4. Open Surgery (rarely needed today)
Reserved for very large stones or when other treatments are not appropriate
Requires a larger incision and longer recovery time
Hospital stay and 4–6 weeks of healing may be necessary
Personalized Kidney Stone Care in West Tennessee
If you’re dealing with a kidney stone or have been told surgery may be needed, it’s important to discuss your options. Our team at West Tennessee Medical Group Urology is here to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery with expert, compassionate care.
Visit us in Dyersburg | Call (731) 285-4104 to schedule a consultation today.
