Less-invasive ways to remove stones from the kidneys and ureters.

ABSTRACT

Less-invasive interventions for upper tract urolithiasis are extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Each has advantages and disadvantages, depending on the location, size, and composition of the stone and on the patient's renal anatomy, body habitus, and comorbidities.