Bladder stones generally need to be removed. If the stone is low, the doctor may recommend that you drink a large quantity of water per day to help the stone passes. If the stone is large or does not pass by itself, the doctor may need to remove the stone.
Bladder stones are generally removed in a procedure called cystolitholapaxy. The doctor uses a laser, ultrasound or mechanical device to break the stone into smaller pieces and then the pieces of empty the bladder.
The doctor may prescribe antibiotics before surgery to reduce the risk of infection. About a month after the cystolitholapaxy, the doctor will probably verify that the fragments of stone are left in the bladder.
From time to time, bladder, which are stones large or too difficult to fragment are removed by open surgery. In these cases, the doctor makes an incision in the bladder and directly removes the stones. Any situation at the origin of the stones such as enlargement of the prostate, can be corrected at the same time, the stones are removed.
Bladder stones generally result from an underlying disease that is difficult to prevent. However, you can reduce the risk of developing bladder stones by following these tips:
- Drink plenty of fluids every day. Drinking large amounts of liquids, especially water, can help prevent urinary calculi because fluids dilute the concentration of minerals in the bladder.
- Ask about unusual urinary symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment of enlargement of the prostate or other urological condition can reduce the risk of developing bladder stones.
- Consider cranberry juice. This type of fruit juice contains a substance, which slows the growth of bacteria. Drinking cranberry juice can help prevent urinary tract infections, which can lead to bladder stones.
Compile and re-written based on article by MFMER