Bladder stones vs kidney stones: what is the difference?
Kidney stones form in the kidney and can travel down the ureter. Bladder stones form in the bladder itself. Both are mineral stones, but they differ in where they form, the symptoms they cause and how they are treated.
Kidney stones usually cause pain in the side or back. Bladder stones more often cause pain in the lower abdomen, trouble passing urine and a feeling that the bladder is not empty. For stones in the kidney or ureter, see our page on kidney stone treatment in Chennai.
Common bladder stone symptoms
Bladder stone symptoms often include:
- Pain or burning while passing urine
- A frequent urge to pass urine, especially at night
- Difficulty starting or stopping the flow of urine
- A feeling that your bladder is not fully empty
- Blood in the urine
- Discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Repeated urinary infections
Some small stones cause no symptoms and are found on a scan done for another reason.
When is bladder stone surgery needed?
Bladder stone surgery is usually advised when:
- The stone is too large to pass on its own
- You have pain, a blocked urine flow or infections
- Your bladder does not empty properly
- Medicines and other measures have not helped
- A problem such as an enlarged prostate or a narrowed bladder outlet also needs treatment
Stones left untreated can cause repeated infections and may block or damage the bladder.
Bladder stone treatment options in Chennai
The right method depends on the size, number and hardness of the stones, and on your overall health.
| Treatment | How it works | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Cystolitholapaxy | A thin scope is passed through the urethra; the stone is broken up and washed out | Most bladder stones |
| Laser cystolitholapaxy | A holmium laser breaks the stone into fine pieces | Hard or larger stones |
| Percutaneous cystolithotomy | The stone is removed through a small cut in the lower abdomen | Very large stones, in selected cases |
| Open cystolithotomy | Traditional open surgery to remove the stone | Rarely needed today; complex cases |
Can bladder stones come back after surgery?
Yes, if the cause is not treated. Common causes include a bladder that does not empty fully and an enlarged prostate in men. A narrowed urethra (stricture), long-term catheter use and some metabolic conditions can also lead to stones. If an enlarged prostate is the cause, prostate surgery such as TURP may be done at the same time.
Bladder stone treatment at Unittas Hospital
Our urology team looks at both the stone and its cause. Where suitable, we remove stones with endoscopic and laser methods for a quicker recovery. We also guide you on recovery and prevention, so the problem does not return. Cashless treatment is available with major health insurance plans.
Our urologists
Dr. Neelakandan
MS (AIIMS), MCh (Urology)
Consultant Urologist
Dr. Joseph Wilfred
MBBS, MS, MCh (Urology)
Urologist and Andrologist
Dr. Raghavendran
MBBS, MS, MCh (Urology)
Consultant Urologist
Frequently asked questions
Are bladder stones the same as kidney stones?
No. They form in different places. Kidney stones start in the kidney, while bladder stones form inside the bladder. Some kidney stones can travel down and grow larger in the bladder.
Can small bladder stones pass on their own?
Very small stones sometimes pass with more fluids and medical support. Larger stones, or stones that cause symptoms, usually need removal.
How long does cystolitholapaxy take?
The procedure often takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the size and number of stones.
Is bladder stone surgery painful?
The surgery is done under anaesthesia. Mild burning or discomfort while passing urine is common for a few days afterwards and is eased with medicines.
How long is the hospital stay?
Many patients go home the same day or the next day after endoscopic stone removal, if recovery goes smoothly.
Will I need a catheter after surgery?
A catheter is sometimes placed for a short time to help the bladder rest and drain properly.
What causes bladder stones in men?
The most common cause is a bladder that does not empty fully because of an enlarged prostate. Other causes include a narrowed urethra, infection and long-term catheter use.
Can women get bladder stones?
Yes, though they are less common. Causes include trouble emptying the bladder, previous surgery and some nerve conditions.
How can I stop bladder stones from coming back?
Treat the underlying cause, drink plenty of water, and follow your doctor's advice on bladder emptying and follow-up visits.
Does health insurance cover bladder stone surgery?
Most health insurance plans cover medically needed bladder stone removal, subject to policy terms, waiting periods and sum insured.