This guide compares surgical removal of kidney stones – ureteroscopy (URS), RIRS and PCNL – with non-surgical options such as medicines and shock-wave lithotripsy, so you know which questions to ask your urologist.
Kidney stone pain is often described as unbearable. I understand the intense anxiety this sudden, sharp pain brings to patients. If you are reading this, you want fast, effective, and safe relief. The immediate question is whether you need surgery for kidney stones or if they will pass naturally. In my 17+ years of clinical and surgical experience, I have helped thousands of patients overcome this exact issue. At our clinic in Bengaluru, we prioritize finding the right treatment for your unique case. This article explains the who, what, why, and how of kidney stones treatment.
Quick answer
Small stones (under 5–6 mm) without infection often pass with medicines and fluids. Surgical removal of kidney stones is advised when a stone is larger than 6–8 mm, blocks the kidney, causes infection or uncontrolled pain, or fails to pass within 4–6 weeks. Options include URS, RIRS with laser and PCNL.
Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts. They form inside your kidneys when your urine becomes too concentrated.
Not every stone requires an operation. Small stones often pass on their own with the right care.
Sometimes, nature needs a highly precise helping hand. Surgery for kidney stones becomes strictly necessary in specific, high-risk situations.
If a stone is too large to pass naturally, we must intervene. If a stone blocks urine flow, it causes major infection risks. Severe, unmanageable pain also warrants immediate surgical action. Fortunately, we offer advanced, minimally invasive options today.
| Feature | Non-Surgical (MET/Hydration) | ESWL (Shock Wave) | URSL / RIRS (Laser) | PCNL (Percutaneous) |
| Best For | Small stones (< 5mm) | Medium stones (5-10mm) | Medium/Hard stones | Very large stones (> 15mm) |
| Invasiveness | None | Non-invasive | Minimally invasive (no cuts) | Minimally invasive (tiny cut) |
| Recovery Time | Varies (days to weeks) | 1-2 days | 1-2 days | 1-2 weeks |
| Success Rate | Moderate (depends on size) | High | Very High | Extremely High |
How long does it take for a kidney stone to pass naturally?
Small stones usually pass within a few days to a few weeks. Staying hydrated drastically speeds up this natural timeline.
Is laser surgery for kidney stones painful?
No. Procedures like RIRS are performed under anesthesia. You will not feel pain during the surgery itself. Post-operative discomfort is usually minimal.
Can kidney stones come back after treatment?
Yes, recurrence is possible. We will guide you through specific dietary and lifestyle changes to prevent future stone formation.
Kidney stones disrupt your life, but you do not have to suffer in silence. Whether through conservative medication or advanced robotic precision, fast relief is available. Delaying care can complicate your condition and threaten your kidney health.
Take action today. Consult Dr. Sreeharsha Harinatha at Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road and Jayanagar, Bengaluru. Call +91 8792966592 to book your consultation.
Dr. Sreeharsha Harinatha is a Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road and Jayanagar, Bengaluru, specializing in Urology, Uro-Oncology, Robotic Surgery and Renal Transplantation. He has 17+ years of clinical and surgical experience.
About the specialist: Dr Sreeharsha Harinatha – MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Urology), Diploma in Robotic Surgery (France) – is a Senior Consultant in Urology, Uro-Oncology, Robotic Surgery and Renal Transplantation at Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road and Jayanagar, Bengaluru, with 17+ years of experience. Karnataka Medical Council Reg. No. KMC72009.
Related care: Endourology & Kidney Stone Treatment · Book an appointment · Call / WhatsApp +91 87929 66592
Last updated: 24 October 2026. This article is general information and does not replace a personal consultation.
