Types of Kidney Stone Surgeries
Before kidney stone surgery, a urologist performs a variety of diagnostic tests to determine the size and location of the kidney stone. The method used for kidney stone removal surgery usually depends on the size and location of the kidney stones, as well as the patient's overall health and individual circumstances. There are primarily 4 methods of kidney stone removal surgery, which includes:
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL): It is a commonly preferred and minimally invasive procedure that is usually suggested in the cases of smaller kidney stones. In this surgical procedure, strong sound waves are used to create vibrations and break down kidney stones into tiny pieces. These tiny pieces can then pass easily through the urine. While the procedure is minimally invasive, it can be moderately painful, so the surgeon may perform it under the influence of anesthesia. The average cost of an ESWL procedure in Chennai starts from INR 30,000 to INR 50,000. It is important to note that it is the estimated cost of surgery, the final cost can vary depending on various factors.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: This surgical procedure is a more invasive method of kidney stone removal as compared to ESWL and is generally recommended in the cases of larger kidney stones. In percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), a surgeon makes a small incision in your back and surgically removes the kidney stones using a small telescope and surgical instruments. The entire procedure is performed under the influence of general anesthesia. The average cost of a percutaneous nephrolithotomy surgery in Chennai ranges from INR 65,000 to INR 75,000.
- Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy: A ureteroscopic lithotripsy or URSL is a surgical procedure typically performed when kidney stones are located near the urinary tract. In this surgical procedure, a surgeon passes a ureteroscope with a small camera on top through the urethra and urinary bladder. Once the stones have been located, special tools are used to either snare the stones or break them into tiny pieces so they can pass through urine. A doctor may also leave a small tube (stent) to promote faster healing. The procedure is performed under the influence of regional anesthesia. The average cost of a ureteroscopy in Chennai starts from INR 50,000 to INR 1,20,000.
- Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS): Retrograde intrarenal surgery is an advanced and minimally invasive method of kidney stone treatment. It is typically recommended to patients with larger kidney stones. In an RIRS procedure, a urologist uses a thin, flexible endoscope fitted with a tiny laser. This endoscope is inserted through the urethra and urinary bladder to reach the affected kidney. Once the endoscope is in place, the surgeon uses the laser to break the kidney stones into smaller pieces so they may pass through the urine. If the size of kidney stones is too large, the surgeon may need to use forceps to remove them. RIRS is usually performed under the influence of spinal anesthesia. A healthcare provider can also suggest general anesthesia depending on the specific condition of the patient. The average cost of an RIRS procedure in Chennai starts from INR 85,000 to INR 95,000.
Cost of Different Kidney Stone Surgeries
| Type of Surgery | Minimum Cost (INR) | Average Cost (INR) | Maximum Cost (INR) |
| Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) | 30,000 | 40,000 | 50,000 |
| Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) | 65,000 | 70,000 | 75,000 |
| Ureteroscopy (URS) | 50,000 | 85,000 | 1,20,000 |
| Open Surgery (Nephrolithotomy) | 1,00,000 | 2,50,000 | 5,00,000 |
| Laparoscopic Surgery | 1,50,000 | 3,00,000 | 6,00,000 |
Factors that Affect the Cost of Kidney Stone Treatment in Chennai
The cost of kidney stone treatment in Chennai depends on the various factors, including
- Type of Surgery: It is one of the important factors in determining the cost of kidney stone surgery. A doctor usually recommends kidney stone surgery by identifying the location and size of the kidney stones. The cost of kidney stone treatment can be dependent on the type of surgery or procedure chosen to treat the kidney stones.
- Hospital of Choice: The cost of kidney stone treatment can be dependent on the choice of hospital or healthcare facility. The cost of surgery in private hospitals is high as compared to government hospitals. The variance in cost is because of the modern facilities and quality of care private hospitals provide.
- Surgeon's fee: The fees charged by the surgeon who performs the kidney stone surgery can also affect the overall cost. Surgeons with more experience and a higher level of expertise may charge more as compared to less experienced surgeons.
- The severity of the condition: The severity of kidney stones can affect the cost of treatment. Small-size kidney stones can be treated with medication, which can be less expensive than surgery. Also, more severe cases may require more extensive surgery, which can be more expensive.
- Post-surgery care: The expenses related to post-surgery care often depend on the hospital you choose. Post-surgery care usually involves pain management, wound care, and medications. It is important to inquire about these additional expenses beforehand as it can impact the overall expenses associated with the treatment.
- Cost of diagnostic tests before surgery: A doctor asks about medical history and usually suggests a few diagnostic tests to understand the severity of the condition. Charges for these diagnostic tests can affect the overall cost of surgery.
Is Kidney Stone Surgery Covered by Insurance in Chennai
Yes, kidney stone is a serious condition that can negatively affect the patient or even become life-threatening if not treated on time. Thus, all insurance providers offer ample coverage for the treatment in the basic insurance plan. To learn about the terms and conditions regarding the claim, you must talk to your health insurance provider, as specifics can vary from policy to policy.
