YAG Laser Lithotripsy

Overview

YAG Laser Lithotripsy is a modern, minimally invasive treatment used to break kidney stones into tiny pieces so they can be passed naturally. It uses a focused laser beam, delivered through a thin flexible scope, to target and fragment the stones without the need for open surgery. This advanced technique is especially useful for stones that are too large or hard to pass on their own.

Why YAG Laser Lithotripsy Treatment is Required?

When kidney stones are too large to pass naturally

If other non-invasive methods like medication or shockwave therapy fail

For patients experiencing pain, bleeding or infections due to stones

When fast and effective stone removal is necessary

For treating stones in difficult-to-reach areas like the ureter or bladder

Key Advantages of YAG Laser Lithotripsy Treatment

Non-invasive kidney stone removal without cuts

Quick recovery time after laser lithotripsy

High success rate of laser lithotripsy for all stone types

Painless kidney stone treatment under anesthesia

Precise targeting reduces damage to nearby tissue

Suitable for hard or irregular-shaped stones

No need for long hospital stay

Less risk of recurrence compared to older methods

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before YAG Laser Lithotripsy Treatment

Share complete medical history with your doctor

Do required blood and urine tests

Avoid blood-thinning medications as advised

Stay on an empty stomach 6–8 hours before the procedure

Arrange someone to accompany you post-treatment

Follow your urologist’s instructions closely

How YAG Laser Lithotripsy Treatment is Performed?

You will receive anesthesia to ensure comfort

A thin tube (ureteroscope) is inserted through the urinary tract

The YAG laser is guided to the location of the stone

Laser pulses break the kidney stone into tiny pieces

Fragments are either removed or left to pass naturally

A stent may be placed temporarily to help urine flow

The procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before Procedure:

Pre-surgery evaluations and fasting

Anesthesia planning and consent

2. During Procedure:

You will be under sedation or anesthesia

The doctor will perform the laser lithotripsy with precision

Continuous monitoring for safety

3. After Procedure:

You may feel mild burning while urinating

Drink plenty of fluids to flush out stone fragments

You might be prescribed antibiotics or painkillers

Resume normal activities within a day or two

Risk and Potential Complications

Mild bleeding or discomfort while urinating

Temporary need for a ureteral stent

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

Risk of stone fragments getting stuck

Rare chance of injury to the urinary tract

Re-treatment may be needed for large stones

Results/Outcomes

Most patients experience complete stone removal

High success rate of laser lithotripsy for all stone sizes

Shorter recovery time compared to traditional methods

Improved quality of life with reduced pain and symptoms

Lower recurrence rates due to complete stone clearance