LASER (Thulium Fibre)

Kidney stones are one of the most common medical conditions that can be quite painful and debilitating for the patient. Thulium fiber laser has become a popular surgical option for the treatment of kidney stones due to its numerous benefits. This brochure is designed to provide detailed patient information about the benefits of thulium fiber laser for stone surgery in a question-answer format.

 

What is thulium fiber laser?

Thulium fiber laser is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a laser beam to break up kidney stones into smaller fragments that can be easily passed through the urinary tract. The laser beam is delivered through a small, flexible fiber that is inserted into the urinary tract through a small incision in the skin.

 

What are the benefits of thulium fiber laser for stone surgery?

Thulium fiber laser has several benefits for stone surgery, including:

1. High success rate: Thulium fiber laser has a high success rate in breaking up kidney stones. In most cases, the stones can be completely broken up and removed during a single procedure.

2. Minimally invasive: Thulium fiber laser is a minimally invasive procedure that involves only a small incision in the skin. This means less pain and scarring for the patient, and a shorter recovery time.

3. Reduced risk of complications: Thulium fiber laser is a safe and effective procedure that carries a lower risk of complications compared to other surgical options.

4. Faster recovery: Because thulium fiber laser is minimally invasive, patients typically experience a faster recovery time compared to other surgical options. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days.

5. Less pain and discomfort: Thulium fiber laser is a less painful procedure compared to other surgical options. Patients typically experience less pain and discomfort after the procedure, and pain medication is usually not needed for more than a day or two.

6. High precision: Thulium fiber laser allows for high precision in targeting and breaking up kidney stones, which means less damage to surrounding tissue and a quicker recovery time.

7. Reduced hospital stay: Thulium fiber laser is a same-day procedure, which means patients are typically able to go home the same day as the procedure. This reduces the need for a hospital stay and associated costs.

 

How is thulium fiber laser performed?

Thulium fiber laser is typically performed under general anesthesia. A small incision is made in the skin, and a flexible fiber is inserted into the urinary tract through the incision. The laser beam is then used to break up the kidney stones into smaller fragments that can be easily passed through the urinary tract.

 

Is thulium fiber laser safe?

Thulium fiber laser is a safe and effective surgical option for the treatment of kidney stones. Like any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of complications, such as bleeding, infection, or damage to surrounding tissue. However, the risk of complications is relatively low compared to other surgical options.

 

What are the potential side effects of thulium fiber laser?

The potential side effects of thulium fiber laser include:

1. Pain and discomfort: Patients may experience some pain and discomfort after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with pain medication.

2. Bleeding: There may be some bleeding during and after the procedure, but this is typically minor and resolves on its own.

3. Infection: There is a small risk of infection with any surgical procedure. Patients will be given antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.

4. Urinary tract injury: In rare cases, the laser beam can cause injury to the urinary tract, but this is rare and typically resolves on its own.