What are the common causes of urinary stones?

Urinary tract stones are small, hard mineral deposits that form in the urinary tract, causing pain, discomfort, and other symptoms. Kidney stones should be removed by surgery if they cause repeated infections in the urine or because they are blocking the flow of urine from the kidney. 

Urinary Tract Stones are made of minerals in the pee that develop crystals. Once in a while the crystals develop into stones. About 85% of the stones are made out of calcium, and the rest of made out of different substances, including uric acid, cystine, or struvite. Struvite stones—a blend of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate—are additionally called contamination stones, since they structure just in tainted pee. 

Dr. Abhijit Gokhale, a renowned urological surgeon in Pune, explains the common causes of urinary stones:

1. Dehydration: Inadequate water intake can lead to concentrated urine, which increases the risk of stone formation.

2. Diet: Consuming foods high in oxalate, such as spinach, beets, and rhubarb, can increase the risk of calcium oxalate stones.

3. Family history: If a family member has a history of kidney stones, you are more likely to develop them.

4. Medical conditions: Certain conditions, such as kidney disease, gout, and inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of stone formation.

5. Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics and anticonvulsants, can increase the risk of stone formation.

6. Other factors: Obesity, physical inactivity, and certain supplements can also contribute to the development of urinary stones.

Dr. Abhijit Gokhale, a renowned urologist in Pune, uses advanced technology to treat urinary stones effectively. Here are some of the technologies he employs:

1. ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy): This non-invasive procedure uses focused shock waves to break down stones into smaller fragments that can be passed naturally.

2. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): For larger or more complex stones, Dr. Gokhale may recommend this minimally invasive procedure to remove the stones directly from the kidney.

3. RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery): This procedure involves using a ureteroscope to locate and remove stones from the ureter or kidney.

4. Laser Kidney Stone Removal: This advanced technology uses a laser to break down and remove stones from the kidney.

5. Ureteroscopic Holmium Laser Lithotripsy: This latest technology uses a ureteroscope and a laser to break down and remove stones from the ureter.

Dr. Gokhale's expertise in these technologies ensures that his patients receive the best possible care for their urinary stone treatment. He is well-equipped to handle even the most complex urology cases, providing his patients with the highest quality of care.