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Kidney stones

Kidney & Bladder | Last Active: Jul 8, 2022 | Replies (124)

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@risbourg

I have a 22mm stone in my left kidney. My urologist wanted to do PCNL procedure, but said that the stone is in a such a location that PCNL is not an option. He said they could do ltihotripsy, but doesn't like that option since the stone is so large. Therefore, he is referring me to MAYO. What do you think the doctors at MAYO can do that my doctor could not. Thank you

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Replies to "I have a 22mm stone in my left kidney. My urologist wanted to do PCNL procedure,..."

@remagdhia. Welcome to MayoClinicConnect. We’re all volunteers here who share our medical experiences and health issues to try to help each other. No one is a physician so we Do you live close to Mayo? Could he instead refer you to a major medical center near you?

@risbourg, Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is used most often for larger stones or when other procedures, such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or uteroscopy, are unsuccessful or not possible. It sounds like your urologist suggests referring you to Mayo Clinic because your situation is complicated because of size and location and would like to get a second opinion. Mayo Clinic has doctors who specialize in percutaneous nephrolithotomy and other kidney stone treatments; they have extra training in kidney stone disease and, in many cases, see only people with kidney stones. As a result, they have extensive expertise in treating this condition, including fixing treatments done elsewhere that have failed.

I certainly would confirm this with your urologist, as you don't want to have to travel unnecessarily. But it may be worth the trip.