What is kidney stone disease?

A kidney stone is a hard mass formed when chemicals in the urine (uric acid, calcium, oxalates phosphates or other rarer chemicals) crystallize.

Many people can form kidney stones and not need surgical intervention, as the stones may be small enough to pass out of the body through urination.

For others, kidney stones can drop into the ureter and cause blockage, leading to significant pain. Stones too large to pass may also be present in the kidneys and not cause symptoms — but treatment may be recommended to prevent these stones from getting larger and requiring more invasive removal techniques.

Man explaining his kidney pain
Signs of kidney stones

Overt symptoms that may indicate kidney stones include:

  • Pain in the back/flank radiating to the groin      
  • Blood in the urine
  • Nausea and vomiting 
Why kidney stones form

Kidney stones typically form when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals and salts to crystallize and stick together. People with the following risk factors may be more prone to develop kidney stones:

  • A family history of kidney stones
  • Hyperparathyroidism (a condition that causes an excess of calcium in the blood)
  • Diabetes
  • Recurring urinary tract infection

Once an individual has kidney stones, they are likely to develop them again. Simple changes to one’s diet — such as drinking more water, sticking to a low-salt diet and avoiding certain foods — can help keep kidney stones under control. Your urologist can offer additional testing to determine why you may be predisposed to stones and tailor a specific prevention plan for you.

Diagnosing kidney stones

Our experts often diagnose kidney stones through a CT scan to determine size, density and location, and use this information to recommend the best treatment option for you.

Treatment options

Advances in technology have greatly altered the treatment for removing kidney stones. Your physician will recommend the best option for you based on your specific diagnosis.

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL)

This noninvasive procedure uses external shock waves to target and break down kidney stones. The stone particles are passed naturally through urination. This is typically an outpatient procedure with a short recovery time.

Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy

A thin ureteroscope is inserted into the urinary tract to visualize and break apart stones using a laser. This approach is commonly used for stones in the ureter or kidney and is also performed on an outpatient basis. This is the most commonly performed procedure for kidney stones in the United States.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)

Used for larger or more complex kidney stones, this minimally invasive surgery involves a small incision in the back and direct access to the kidney to remove stone fragments. This procedure typically requires a short hospital stay.

Why Endeavor Health?

We take a multidisciplinary approach to kidney stone care, offering a full spectrum of services under one system.

Our board-certified urologists work alongside nephrologists, nutritionists and other specialists to provide coordinated care.

We use state-of-the-art imaging and minimally invasive techniques, including the newest laser systems for efficient stone fragmentation and removal.

In addition to treatment, we offer prevention counseling and nutrition guidance to help reduce recurrence.

We are proud to train the next generation of urologists through robust residency programs committed to innovation and quality.

In addition to medical and surgical care, patients have access to support services like integrative medicine, psychology and personalized health counseling.

Make an appointment

If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of kidney stone — or have a history of stone disease — our urology specialists can help you find answers and relief.

Schedule an appointment
Doctors researching illustration
Clinical trials & research

Endeavor Health participates in ongoing research and clinical trials aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment and prevention of kidney stone disease. Your care team can discuss any trial opportunities that may be right for you.

Learn more about clinical trials