Laser Treatment for Kidney Stones Melbourne
Laser treatment for kidney stones in Melbourne — ureteroscopy with holmium laser lithotripsy — is the most effective single-treatment option for most kidney and ureteric stones. Dr Brendan Dias passes a thin flexible telescope through the natural urinary tract (no external incisions), fragments the stone with a holmium laser, and extracts the fragments. The procedure is suitable for stones of any composition, including hard cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones, and for difficult lower-pole kidney stones where shockwave therapy often fails. Most patients are discharged the same day.
Written and clinically reviewed by Dr Brendan Dias
Consultant Urologist & Robotic Surgeon · MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DrNB (Urology), IntFRCS (England), FUSANZ, FRACS (Urology)
Last clinically reviewed: 26 August 2026
Benefits
- No external incisions - telescope passed through natural urinary tract
- Higher stone-free rates than ESWL in a single treatment
- Can treat stones of all compositions including very hard stones
- Suitable for lower pole kidney stones
- Same-day discharge for most patients
- Minimal recovery time (2-5 days to return to work)
The Procedure
Ureteroscopy is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes 30-90 minutes. A cystoscope is passed through the urethra into the bladder. A guidewire is placed into the ureter. A flexible or semi-rigid ureteroscope is advanced up the ureter. Stones are fragmented using holmium laser. Stone fragments are extracted with baskets or left to pass. A ureteric stent is often placed temporarily to prevent swelling.
Who Is a Candidate?
Ureteroscopy is commonly performed for ureteral stones of any size, kidney stones up to 20mm, failed ESWL treatment, stones unsuitable for ESWL, investigation of blood in urine, and treatment of ureteral strictures or tumours.
Recovery
Most patients go home the same day. Light activities can resume in 2-3 days. Return to work typically at 2-5 days. Stent removal at 1-2 weeks if placed. Imaging at 4-6 weeks to confirm stone clearance. If a stent is placed, you may experience urinary frequency, urgency, and discomfort which typically improves over days.
Risks & Considerations
Common effects include temporary burning with urination and blood in urine. Occasional complications include urinary tract infection, residual stone fragments, and stent-related discomfort. Rare complications include ureteral injury or perforation, ureteral stricture, significant bleeding, or need for open surgery.