What to expect after stone lithotripsy

After ureteroscopy with laser

• Same-day discharge or one night in hospital is common.
• Pink urine, mild burning, frequency, and urgency are frequent for one to two weeks, often related to a temporary stent.
• Stent removal is typically at one to two weeks.
• Desk-based work can often resume within a few days if your surgeon agrees.

After ESWL

• Usually a day procedure.
• Fragment passage can cause intermittent loin discomfort for days to weeks.
• Flank skin bruising and blood in urine are common in the first 24 to 48 hours.

After PCNL

• One to two nights in hospital is typical.
• A drain or nephrostomy tube may be left for a short interval.
• Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are usually limited for about four weeks.

Urgent symptoms after any stone procedure

• Fever over 38 degrees Celsius, rigors, or offensive cloudy urine.
• Pain not controlled by prescribed analgesia.
• Heavy bleeding or clots.
• Inability to pass urine.
• New calf pain, leg swelling, chest pain, or breathlessness.

Seek urgent care or the emergency department if these occur.