Kidney stones (गुर्दे की पथरी) are among the most common urological problems in India, affecting nearly 12% of the Indian population. They cause severe pain and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. The good news? With modern minimally invasive techniques, kidney stones can be treated quickly with minimal pain and fast recovery.
Dr. Pragnesh Desai, Senior Director & HOD – Urology at Yatharth Super Specialty Hospital, Noida Extension, is one of the most experienced kidney stone specialists in the NCR region, offering all advanced stone removal techniques under one roof.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones form when certain minerals in the urine become highly concentrated and crystallize. Common causes in Indian patients include:
- Low water intake (very common in North India's hot climate)
- High-salt and high-protein diet (e.g. non-vegetarian diet, excessive dal)
- Spinach, tomatoes, nuts — high oxalate foods
- Family history of kidney stones
- Diabetes and obesity
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
- Severe pain in the back or side (renal colic) — often described as the worst pain imaginable
- Blood in urine (pink or red urine)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Burning sensation during urination
- Fever and chills (if infection is present)
- Frequent urge to urinate
Diagnosis
At Yatharth Hospital, Dr. Pragnesh Desai uses the following diagnostic tools:
- NCCT KUB (Non-contrast CT scan) – Gold standard for kidney stone diagnosis
- Ultrasound – Quick bedside evaluation
- Urine analysis – To check for infection and stone crystals
- Kidney function tests – To assess any damage
Modern Kidney Stone Treatment Options
1. RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) – Best for stones up to 2 cm
A flexible laser scope is passed through the urinary tract without any incision. The stone is broken into fine powder using a holmium laser. This is a daycare procedure — patients go home the same day or next morning. Dr. Pragnesh Desai performs hundreds of RIRS procedures every year at Yatharth Hospital.
2. PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy) – Best for large stones above 2 cm
A small puncture (1 cm) is made in the back to directly access and remove the stone. Mini-PCNL and Ultra-mini PCNL are even less invasive variations. Recovery is 2–3 days in hospital.
3. ESWL (Shockwave Lithotripsy) – Non-invasive option
High-energy shockwaves break the stone from outside the body. Best suited for stones less than 1 cm in the kidney or upper ureter. No anaesthesia or incision required.
4. URS (Ureteroscopy) – For ureteric stones
A thin scope is passed through the ureter to laser-fragment and remove the stone. Excellent results for stones stuck in the ureter.
5. Medical Expulsion Therapy
For very small stones (less than 5 mm), medications and high fluid intake help pass stones naturally under supervision.
How to Prevent Kidney Stones?
- Drink at least 3–4 litres of water daily (especially in summer)
- Reduce salt intake in food
- Limit high-oxalate foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate)
- Avoid excessive vitamin C supplements
- Maintain healthy body weight
- Regular follow-up with a urologist if you've had stones before
Why Choose Dr. Pragnesh Desai for Kidney Stone Treatment in Noida?
- 20+ years of experience in endourology
- Expert in RIRS, PCNL, URS, and ESWL
- State-of-the-art equipment at Yatharth Super Specialty Hospital
- Daycare procedures available — go home same day
- Also available at Shahdara Clinic, Delhi
🩺 Suffering from Kidney Stone Pain?
Don't suffer in silence. Consult Dr. Pragnesh Desai today for expert, minimally invasive kidney stone treatment in Noida.
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