What complaints do ureteral stones cause?
Complaints about ureteral stones may include pain, nausea and vomiting. In upper ureter stones, the pain is in the side area, radiates to the back and groin, and may hit the testicles. The lower ureter spreads towards the back and groin and may affect the testicles. Lower ureteral stones may also cause burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, urgent urge to urinate, and may hit the root of the penis or the vagina.
How is it recognized?
It is determined directly by film or ultrasonography. The condition of the urinary tract and kidney can be examined with intravenous pyelography (IVP-medicated kidney film). The presence of bleeding and infection is determined by urinalysis.
Is there a possibility for ureteral stones to pass?
Not every ureteral stone may require an intervention. In general, if there is no external pressure on the ureter or internal stenosis, stones with a diameter of 4-5 mm are likely to pass spontaneously. 29-98% of upper ureter stones and 78-98% of distal ureter stones of this diameter can pass. In those who have passed stones before, it may be easier for stones that develop later to pass.
In which cases is an intervention necessary?
It is an important factor in making the decision to intervene in ureteral stones. The measure is the damage to the kidney. If there are conditions such as kidney malfunction, infection, severe kidney enlargement (swelling), or in patients with one kidney or if the other kidney function is impaired, no time should be wasted for intervention. Intervention can also be made in cases where spontaneous fall cannot be tolerated and work efficiency decreases. If there is complete ureteral obstruction, intervention must be made before two weeks; if it exceeds 6 weeks, irreversible damage to the kidney occurs.
Does the disappearance of pain always indicate that the stone has passed?
The disappearance of pain is often perceived as recovery, which is extremely dangerous. Kidney damage caused by obstruction of urine flow should not be forgotten. Small stones can cause more pain and complaints because they are mobile, while large stones are immobile. It should be known that they cause less pain.
How is it treated?
ESWL (lithology) and endoscopic (closed)or open surgical methods are preferred. It is determined according to the size and location of the stone and the condition of the urinary tract and kidneys.
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