Tests to prove the existence of a urinary stone are simple abdominal radiography and renovesical ultrasound. Sometimes it is necessary to complete the study with tests such as abdominal CT or intravenous urography, which allows a better visualization of the anatomy and the exact size and location of the stones within the urinary tract. For the study and metabolic control of lithiasic disease it is necessary to perform a blood test and a 24-hour urine test. The composition of the calculation is determined with microscope observation and spectrometry.
Which is the treatment
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (LEOC) is the treatment of choice for most lithiasis in any of its locations. It is about breaking the stone without surgically intervening the patient and getting him to eject the fragments. When the LEOC is ineffective or not indicated, different types of surgery can be performed to solve the problem. If the lithiasis is in the ureter, endoscopic surgery such as ureteroscopy can be performed. When the calculus is in the kidney or its size is greater than 2-3 cm, for example in coral stones, a percutaneous nephrolithotomy (NLP) is performed, through which the inside of the kidney is accessed through the area lumbar. Laparoscopy is an option for special cases of stones in the ureter or renal pelvis. Open surgery is currently applied in very few cases. Bladder stones (bladder stones) are treated with endoscopic techniques but if the stone is bulky, a small incision can be made in the lower abdomen for removal.
For the medical treatment of lithiasis there are very few effective medications. Potassium citrate is useful to prevent the formation of oxalate stones and to dissolve those of uric acid. Thiazide-type diuretics reduce the expulsion of calcium in the urine (hypercalciuria).
