Paediatric urinary stone disease is becoming increasingly common, with stones forming in the kidneys, ureters, or bladder. Children may develop stones due to metabolic disorders, infections, congenital abnormalities, or dietary factors. Dr. Pruthvi Raj Honnaiah, a renowned paediatric urologist, specializes in minimally invasive **endoscopic stone surgeries** to safely and effectively remove urinary stones in children, ensuring minimal discomfort and faster recovery.

What are Paediatric Endoscopic Stone Surgeries?

Endoscopic stone surgeries are advanced, minimally invasive procedures that allow for the removal of urinary stones without large incisions. These techniques use specialized instruments and cameras inserted through natural urinary openings or small punctures, making them ideal for children.

The goal is to clear the stones while preserving kidney function and minimizing trauma to the urinary tract.

Causes and Risk Factors for Urinary Stones in Children

• Dehydration or low fluid intake
• Diet high in salt or certain minerals
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Congenital abnormalities in the urinary tract
• Metabolic disorders (such as hypercalciuria or cystinuria)
• Family history of kidney stones

Symptoms of Urinary Stones in Children

• Severe abdominal or flank pain
• Pain while urinating
• Blood in urine (hematuria)
• Recurrent urinary infections
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent urge to urinate

Types of Endoscopic Stone Surgeries

1. Ureteroscopy (URS)

A thin endoscope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter to locate and remove stones. Laser or mechanical energy may be used to break the stones into smaller pieces for removal.

2. Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS)

For kidney stones, a flexible endoscope is passed through the urinary tract into the kidney, allowing direct visualization and laser fragmentation of stones.

3. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (Mini PCNL)

In cases of larger kidney stones, a small puncture is made through the skin directly into the kidney to remove the stones. Miniaturized instruments are used in children to reduce tissue trauma.

Advantages of Endoscopic Surgeries for Children

• Minimally invasive with no or very small incisions
• Faster recovery compared to open surgery
• Less post-operative pain
• Shorter hospital stay
• Effective stone clearance

Pre-Surgical Evaluation

Before surgery, comprehensive evaluation is conducted to assess the size, location, and composition of the stones, as well as the overall urinary tract health. Tests may include:

• Ultrasound and X-ray imaging
• CT scan (if necessary)
• Urine analysis and culture
• Blood tests to check kidney function and metabolic profile

Post-Surgery Care and Follow-Up

After the procedure, most children recover quickly and resume normal activities within a few days. Follow-up includes:

• Periodic imaging to ensure complete stone clearance
• Dietary guidance to prevent recurrence
• Metabolic evaluation if needed (for recurrent stones)

Parents are advised to encourage adequate fluid intake and follow all dietary and lifestyle recommendations to minimize the risk of future stone formation.

Why Choose Dr. Pruthvi Raj Honnaiah?

With extensive experience in managing paediatric urological conditions, including complex stone disease, Dr. Pruthvi Raj Honnaiah offers state-of-the-art minimally invasive solutions to ensure safe and effective stone removal for children. His patient-centric approach focuses on minimizing discomfort while delivering optimal outcomes.