Treatment of bladder stones

The formation of bladder stones is most often associated with impaired normal urine outflow and prolonged urinary stasis. Under such conditions, salts contained in the urine are not completely excreted, gradually crystallize, and form hard calculi. The risk of developing the condition increases in the presence of anatomical or functional disorders of the lower urinary tract.

The main causes of bladder stone formation include:

• impaired urine outflow due to prostate diseases, urethral strictures, or other obstructive conditions;

• incomplete emptying of the bladder with the formation of residual urine;

• neurogenic voiding disorders in which bladder contractile function is reduced;

• chronic infectious and inflammatory processes of the urinary bladder;

• long-term use of urinary catheters;

• insufficient fluid intake and нарушения питьевого режима.

In some cases, stones migrate from the upper parts of the urinary tract and become retained in the bladder cavity. Therefore, during treatment it is important not only to remove the stone but also to identify the cause of its formation in order to prevent recurrence of the disease.

Based on the diagnostic results, the physician can determine the optimal treatment method.

To detect bladder stones and determine their size, number, and location, the following examinations may be prescribed:

• ultrasound examination of the urinary system, which allows detection of calculi, assessment of the bladder wall condition, and evaluation of residual urine;

• cystoscopy — an endoscopic method that enables direct visualization of the bladder cavity, clarification of stone size, and assessment of the mucosal condition;

• computed tomography, used in complex or uncertain cases for precise visualization of calculi and differential diagnosis;

• laboratory blood and urine tests to identify signs of inflammation, hematuria, infectious processes, and to assess urinary system function.

Based on the diagnostic results, the physician can determine the optimal treatment method.

To prevent recurrent stone formation, the following is recommended:

• urinate in a timely manner and avoid prolonged urine retention;

• consume an adequate amount of fluids (1.5–2 liters of water per day for an adult) to dilute urinary salts and reduce the risk of crystallization;

• maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive consumption of foods that increase the concentration of salts in the urine;

• своевременно лечить хронические инфекционно-воспалительные заболевания мочевыводящих путей;

• undergo regular preventive examinations by a urologist, especially in the presence of risk factors such as obstructive urinary tract conditions.

Following these recommendations significantly reduces the likelihood of recurrent stone formation.