What is a treatment option for symptomatic patients with kidney stones over 7mm?

For symptomatic patients with kidney stones larger than 7mm, ureteroscopy is an effective treatment option. This procedure involves the use of a thin, flexible tube called a ureteroscope, which is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the ureter. Once the stones are visualized, they can be fragmented using laser energy or retrieved entirely. This method is particularly beneficial because it allows for direct access to the stones and typically results in quicker relief of symptoms compared to conservative management approaches.

In cases where stones are larger than 7mm, conservative measures like observation or oral medications may not be sufficient due to the increased likelihood of complications, such as obstruction or infection, if the stone does not pass spontaneously. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is also a common treatment for stones but is usually more effective for stones that are smaller than this size. Thus, ureteroscopy stands out as a preferred treatment for managing larger, symptomatic kidney stones directly and effectively.