What is the Cost of Laser Lithotripsy?

Laser Lithotripsy Cost Across Major Indian Cities

Laser lithotripsy has revolutionised the management of kidney stones and stones in the urinary tract, serving as a noninvasive, efficient alternative to open surgery. With the incidence of kidney stone disease rising worldwide, people seek information on costs, risks, benefits, recovery processes, and expectations of this procedure.

Therefore, it is crucial to understand how laser lithotripsy works and what you should expect before and after the procedure, while considering key points for a smooth treatment journey. Keep reading for a detailed insight!

What is the Cost of Laser Lithotripsy in India?

Here's a comparison of laser lithotripsy costs in different cities across India:

Is lithotripsy covered by health insurance? Yes, lithotripsy is covered by most health insurance policies, particularly as a day-care procedure. However, coverage specifics may vary from policy to policy. It is recommended to check it with your insurance company before purchasing a policy.

What are the factors affecting the cost of laser lithotripsy in India?

• Type of Procedure: Flexible ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy (FURSL) is generally more costly than the other types.
• Hospital and Location: Costs are higher in metropolitan areas and at super-speciality hospitals.
• Complexity of the Case: Larger, more than one stone may require longer procedures and more inputs.

Is Lithotripsy a High-Risk Surgery?

Laser lithotripsy can be considered relatively safe and low-risk because it is safer in most patients than traditional open surgery techniques. Still, there are also some risks involved in any medical procedure.

What are the Things to Consider Before Laser Lithotripsy?

• Size and Location of Stone: Laser lithotripsy is the preferred technique for some types and sizes of stones; your doctor will tell you if it is suitable for you.
• Medical History: Discuss other ailments with your doctor to ascertain risk factors.
• Be Cost-Conscious: Collate every cost, including wages lost due to possible leave and assistance required during recovery.
• Long-term Prevention: Ask the physician about lifestyle-dietary modifications to minimise the chances of developing stones.

What are the common complications in laser lithotripsy?

• Bleeding: Occasional bleeding around the kidney or bladder is somewhat expected but rarely needs blood transfusion.
• Infection: Urinary tract or kidney infection may occur, and antibiotics may sometimes be needed in their treatment.
• Obstruction: Occasionally, some fragments of stones may block urine flow, causing pain and kidney problems.
• Retained Fragments: Occasionally, all stone fragments may not be cleared, requiring further procedures.
• Temporary Ulcers: Rarely, ulcers develop temporarily within the urinary tract.
• Damaged Kidney: Kidney function is rarely, temporarily, affected.

Other rare complications:

• Bladder Perforation: More of a possibility in people with pre-existing bladder issues or spinal cord injuries (<1% incidence).
• Severe Bleeding or Clot Retention: Few cases of bladder rupture or abdominal complications.
• Autonomic Dysreflexia: Dangerous spikes of blood pressure can occur in individuals with spinal cord injury (<1% incidence).

What are the advantages of laser lithotripsy?

• Minimally Invasive: No large incisions, less pain, lower risk of infection, little to no scarring, high success rate.
• Multispecialty: Treats kidney, ureter, bladder, or urethra conditions with stones.
• Short Hospitalisation: Most patients discharged within a day.
• Quick Recovery: Patients return to normal activity within a few days.
• Minimum Recurrence Chances: With aftercare, recurrence rates remain ~50% over 5–10 years.

What Does Laser Lithotripsy Recovery and Aftercare Involve?

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to flush out remaining fragments.
• Pain Management: Blood in urine and mild discomfort are normal for a few days.
• Monitor for Complications: Watch for severe pain or prolonged blood in urine.
• Follow-Up Visits: Attend all scheduled appointments and imaging tests.
• Take Sufficient Rest: Avoid heavy activities until cleared by doctor.

Most people can return to work and resume regular routines after about a week, but this varies with health and complexity of the procedure.

Conclusion: Laser lithotripsy is among the safest, most effective, and least invasive treatments for urinary tract stones. Understanding the costs, risks, recovery process, and insurance coverage can help patients make informed healthcare decisions. Always consult a qualified urologist to determine the most suitable treatment option based on your medical condition.

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