Laser kidney stone surgery in Tijuana: no incisions
A scope thinner than a pencil travels up the natural passages to the stone and a laser fiber turns it to dust. No wounds, a short stay and a quick return to your routine.
Laser kidney stone surgery: what it involves
Laser ureteroscopy is one of today’s most widely used treatments for ureteral and kidney stones. A fine scope—rigid or flexible—is passed through the urethra to the stone; the laser breaks it into dust and small fragments that are removed or pass with urine.
For large or branched kidney stones, percutaneous nephrolithotomy may be better: it reaches the kidney through a half-inch access in the back. The choice depends on stone size, hardness and location on CT.
When is it recommended?
- Ureteral stones that do not pass
- Kidney stones causing pain, bleeding or infection
- Pain not relieved by medication
- Obstruction with kidney swelling
- Single kidney or high-risk occupations (pilots, operators)
The indication is confirmed at your evaluation.
How the procedure goes
Diagnosis
Non-contrast CT to measure and locate the stone, and urinalysis to rule out infection.
Endoscopic surgery
Under anesthesia, with no cuts. The laser fragments the stone; pieces are retrieved with a basket.
Ureteral stent
A temporary internal stent is often left so the ureter can settle. It is removed days or weeks later in the office.
Prevention
The stone and, when appropriate, a 24-hour urine sample are analyzed to give you a plan that prevents new stones.
Recovery and aftercare
Many patients go home the same or the next day. While the stent is in, urgency, burning and some blood in the urine are common. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous effort for the first days.
You will receive written instructions and a phone number for questions.
Before you decide
Does the laser remove the stone completely?
Most cases are solved in a single session. Very large or multiple stones may need a second stage; the CT tells us in advance.
Is the stent uncomfortable?
It can be: urgency, burning and flank discomfort when urinating are common and improve with medication. It is temporary, and it must not be forgotten: it has to come out on the scheduled date.
I live in the US. How many visits will I need?
Typically an evaluation with imaging, the procedure, and a short visit to remove the stent. Ask when you book so the dates can be grouped around your travel.
This page offers general information and does not replace a medical visit. Every case is assessed individually; results and recovery times vary from person to person.
We are in Tijuana’s Zona Río
Call us or leave your details and we will contact you to confirm a date and time.
- Phone+52 (664) 128 2820
- AddressZona Río, Tijuana, B.C.
- HoursBy appointment only