by NR INDRAN / INT

The renowned chain of Urology and Laparoscopy Hospitals of the country, RG Stone Urology and Laparoscopy Centre, Mumbai discussed the rising problem of kidney stones in infants and children, reasons of occurrence and its treatment.

According to Dr. Bhim Sen Bansal (Popularly known as ‘Father of Lithotripsy in India’), Chairman and Managing Director, RG Stone Urology and Laparoscopy Hospital, “Children and infants constitute a very small number of the total patients with kidney stones but now the cases are on rise. Stone disease in pediatric population is an important problem due to its high recurrence rate. Kidney stones can occur more commonly in children with birth defects of urinary tract, and that too specially if they reside in hot climate. Family history of kidney stones is also a significant risk factor. Food habits and lifestyle can also lead to kidney stones in children. Today, kids consume sugar-filled drinks and fast-food that is high in sodium, a known risk factor for the formation of kidney stones.”

”The symptoms of urinary stones in children may range from pain in the abdomen or low back, flank pain, increased frequency of urination,  blood in urine to non-specific symptoms such as irritability, nausea or vomiting. However, some children might remain asymptomatic. The stone blocks the urinary tract and prevents the normal flow of urine. If the blockage is left untreated, it can cause permanent damage to the kidney. (even renal failure may occur)”, added Dr. Bhim Sen Bansal.

Baldev Raj, Country Head (Industrial Expert), RG Stone Urology & Laparoscopy Hospital, said, “There is no deny in the fact that children also get affected with the problem of Kidney Stones. A 7 month old baby came to our hospital with complaint of excessive crying and probable pain in the abdomen. There was a strong family history of stone formation with father being a stone former. On evaluation, there were multiple stones in kidneys, right ureter and urinary bladder. Baby underwent Cystolithotripsy, right urterorenoscopy, and left percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Now the baby is doing well. Another 8 1/2 month child of the same family with same case was also treated at our hospital.”

While discussing about the treatment options available, Dr. Bansal, said, “The treatment modality depends upon the size of the stone, condition of the patient and the biochemical abnormalities causing its formation. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the treatment of choice in many pediatric cases.  It is done by directing high-energy shock wave towards the stone, which breaks into fragments that can be passed in urine. However, the upper urinary tract calculi that are too large to treat with ESWL are most commonly cleared with a minimally invasive surgical procedure called percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL). .”

“Children who develop kidney stones have a significant chance of re-developing stones in the future. Studies have estimated the chances to be between 30 to 40 percent. However, few precautions & lifestyle modifications can lower the chances of developing another stone. Limiting salt and calcium in diet and drinking plenty of water are the best tools to prevent the kidney stones.” added Dr. Bansal.

Faiz Zaidi, 5 year old child came to RG Stone hospital with acute pain in abdomen. After investigations, it was found that he had lower ureteric calculus and renal calculus. Patient underwent ureterolithotomy + Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS). Now Faiz is completely fit and fine.  Another 13 year old Maswood came to RG Stone from Afghanistan with abdomen pain. As per the investigation reports, it was revealed that his left kidney was enlarged and hydronephrotic. There were 3 calculi, one in pelvis (23 mm), and two in lower calcyces of 12 mm and 10 mm. Patient underwent PCNL and now he is doing well.

As part of our campaign to promote quality healthcare in urology at affordable prices, in January we facilitated Lithotripsy (ESWL) at Rs. 8000 and we would like to extend this offer for the next month as well. RG Stone is well equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and operated by a distinguished team of eminent urologists and laparoscopic surgeons that offer a comprehensive care under one roof.

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