Member Comments are provided by individuals and reflect their personal opinions only. Under NO circumstances should you act on any advice or opinion posted in this forum. ALWAYS check with your personal physician before taking any action regarding your health! MedHelp International and our partners, sponsors and affiliates have no obligation to monitor any comments posted on this site, or the content and/or accuracy of such exchanges. MedHelp International does not endorse the views of any user.
Urology (Expert Forum)
Major Surgery Next
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.
Major Surgery Next
by sad3152003, May 26, 2003 12:00AM
Since early March, a very large kidney stone (13mm x 8mm) has been blocking and “bulging” in my upper left ureter. I have had six "out patient" surgical procedures. A stent from my left kidney to the bladder or an external collection bag has permitted me to function. Since two Lithotripys and one laser attempt (through the urethra) have failed to shatter or effect the stone in any way, my urologist informs that he (accompanied by one of his senior partners) will have to perform major surgery, cut me open, and go in to cut the ureter to remove the stone. Since all else has been attempted, I find myself left with no alternative.
I am told that baring complications, the hospital stay will be about four days with approximately four to six weeks recuperation at home. To permit healing of the left ureter, a stent will be placed in it.
What are chances of one making a complete recovery and getting “back to normal” after such major surgery? Also, I understand there is risk of the ureter closing up after such surgery. What are the dangers of cutting the ureter and resulting scarring of it?
Any other comments, suggestions or opinions will also be appreciated.
Thank you,
Steve
I am told that baring complications, the hospital stay will be about four days with approximately four to six weeks recuperation at home. To permit healing of the left ureter, a stent will be placed in it.
What are chances of one making a complete recovery and getting “back to normal” after such major surgery? Also, I understand there is risk of the ureter closing up after such surgery. What are the dangers of cutting the ureter and resulting scarring of it?
Any other comments, suggestions or opinions will also be appreciated.
Thank you,
Steve
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, May 27, 2003 12:00AM
, May 27, 2003 12:00AM
Hello - thanks for asking your question.
Open surgery for kidney stones introduces more complications than the more non-invasive techniques. It is done under general anesthesia (leading to general anesthesia complications) and predisposes to greater blood loss than other surgeries.
A nephrostomy tube or ureteral stent is often left in place to optimize drainage of urine from the kidney and allow for adequate healing.
The recovery time is normally 2 months and if there are no complications, then the chances for complete recovery is good.
The risk of ureter scarring and subsequent blockage would eventually lead to failure of the affected kidney. The stent is designed to keep the ureter open and thus avoid this complication.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
Open surgery for kidney stones introduces more complications than the more non-invasive techniques. It is done under general anesthesia (leading to general anesthesia complications) and predisposes to greater blood loss than other surgeries.
A nephrostomy tube or ureteral stent is often left in place to optimize drainage of urine from the kidney and allow for adequate healing.
The recovery time is normally 2 months and if there are no complications, then the chances for complete recovery is good.
The risk of ureter scarring and subsequent blockage would eventually lead to failure of the affected kidney. The stent is designed to keep the ureter open and thus avoid this complication.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
Member Comments
by willing, Aug 22, 2003 12:00AM
To: Kidney Stones
0
