Holmium Laser Lithotripsy is a minimally invasive urological treatment that is used to completely remove kidney stones. If left untreated, kidney stones increase in size over time and cause further health problems down the line such as infections and kidney damage.
At New Victoria Hospital, our renowned urologists are well-versed in completing Holmium Laser Lithotripsy to treat kidney stones. As part of our private Holmium Laser treatment, we ensure every patient is given the information and guidance they need at every stage of the process. From initial diagnosis, to treatment, to aftercare, our friendly team makes sure every patient enjoys the highest standard of care throughout their stay at our hospital.
What is the Holmium Laser?
The Holmium Laser is a solid-state, pulsed laser that emits light in the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Invisible to the human eye, the infrared wavelength is easily absorbed by water in the body’s superficial tissue, which means it can vaporise and cut both hard and soft tissue within the body.
As it can be inserted into the body through the urethra without the need for an invasive incision, it has become a widely-used multipurpose surgical tool within the field of urology. The Holmium Laser is particularly effective in removing kidney stones.
Using the Holmium Laser Lithotripsy for Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard deposits of salt and minerals that form within the kidney or in the ureter (the tube which connects the kidneys to the bladder). They are usually caused by a number of different factors such as diet, pre-existing medical conditions, and medications. It is possible for the stones to form in one or both of the kidneys and are typically found in patients aged 30 to 60.
Most kidney stones which are small in size can be passed with urine. However, larger kidney stones can get stuck in the urinary tract, and if left untreated, can lead to kidney infections or the kidney losing its optimal function. Holmium laser lithotripsy is the procedure where a Holmium Laser is used to break up any stones stuck in the urinary tract.
Once a patient has been put to sleep, a ureteroscope is inserted into the urinary tract via the urethra to access the ureter and kidney. Attached to this will be the HolmiumLaser, along with a camera. The surgeon will use this to navigate the urinary tract until the stones are located. The attached laser fiber will transmit Holmium energy which breaks up the kidney stones without the need for any incisions.
Holmium Laser lithotripsy treatment at New Victoria Hospital
During your initial consultation with a Consultant Urologist, if you have been advised you have kidney stones that are either too large to be passed with urine or are at risk of causing further problems due to the current state of the kidney stones, then Holmium Laser treatment may be advised.
Holmium Laser lithotripsy surgery can take anywhere from 30 minutes up to 2 hours depending on the size of the stones and how many need to be broken up by the laser. Most patients can go home the same day. We will always advise you on the steps you need to take in order to maximise your chances of recovery.
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