A cystolitholapaxy is the medical term for breaking up bladder stones into smaller pieces so they can be removed. The procedure is done using a cystoscope and other instruments.
Complications
There are always risks associated with surgical procedures and these should be discussed with your doctor prior to giving consent.
The risks associated with cystolitholapaxy are as follows:
- Bleeding – there may be a small amount of blood in the urine following cystolitholapaxy. Bleeding is more common if a biopsy is performed. The bleeding should stop on its own. If the bleeding continues you should contact your doctor for advice.
- Infection – Whenever a foreign object is inserted into the bladder there is a risk that bacteria may be introduced as well. Every precaution will be taken to minimise the risk of infection but you should be aware that there is a higher risk for urinary tract infection following cystolitholapaxy.
- Urethral stricture (narrowing if the urethra due to scar tissue) – This is unlikely following a single cystolitholapaxy but people who use catheters may be at a higher risk. Signs of stricture include difficulty passing catheters or passing urine.
- The need for further procedures to deal with issues that might be causing bladder stones to form.
