Surgery Available
Yes
Hospitalization Required
- Usually not required for most laser and endoscopic procedures (URS, SWL).
- May be needed for large stone removal (PCNL) or complex cases.
Lab Tests Facility
Available (Blood tests, Urine tests, Stone analysis).
Emergency Treatment
Available — 24×7 for cases with severe pain, infection, or obstruction.
In-Patient Facilities
Available (Single, Deluxe & Suite rooms).
Imaging Facility
Available (Ultrasound, NCCT KUB, X-ray KUB).
Same-Day Appointment
Available — Quick consultation slots through WhatsApp or phone.
Recovery Rate
Recovery rates are high with laser procedures.
Most patients resume normal activity within 2–5 days after URS; 1–2 weeks for PCNL.
Meet Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini — Leading Urologist & Kidney Stone Specialist in Delhi NCR
Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini, MCh (Urology, AIIMS New Delhi), is one of the most trusted Kidney Stone Doctors in Delhi NCR with 12+ years of expertise and 21,000+ surgeries performed. A former Assistant Professor at AIIMS, he specializes in laser kidney stone surgery, URS, and PCNL with high success and minimal recovery time. At his Excel Advanced Urology Center, South Delhi, Dr. Saini offers advanced, patient-centric care using the latest endoscopic and laser technology. If you’re searching for a Urologist near AIIMS, Saket, or South Delhi for safe and effective laser stone removal, book your consultation today.
Kidney Stone Treatment in Delhi — Laser, Minimally Invasive & Surgical Removal by Dr. Ashish Saini
If you’re facing sudden flank pain, blood in urine, or repeated kidney stones, expert help in Delhi is available. Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini — MCh (Urology), DNB (Genitourinary Surgery), former Asst. Professor at AIIMS — provides advanced kidney stone treatment including laser lithotripsy, ureteroscopy (URS), shockwave lithotripsy (SWL/ESWL) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). We focus on fast relief, high stone-free rates, minimal downtime and clear, patient-centered care. Book a consultation by WhatsApp or phone today.
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidney or urinary tract. They vary in size — from grain-like crystals to larger stones that can block urine flow and cause severe pain. Stones are commonly made of calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, uric acid, struvite (infection stones) or cystine.
Symptoms — When to see a urologist right away
- Severe, colicky flank pain that may radiate to the groin
- Blood in urine (visible or microscopic hematuria)
- Fever or chills with pain (possible infection — urgent)
- Nausea, vomiting or inability to pass urine
If you have fever or severe pain, contact us immediately — these can be signs of infection or urinary blockage requiring urgent treatment.
How we diagnose kidney stones
We use a combination of clinical evaluation and targeted testing to choose the safest and most effective treatment:
- Imaging: Ultrasound for initial screening and follow-up; non-contrast CT scan (NCCT) for precise stone size, density and position when needed.
- Urine tests: Urinalysis for blood, infection and crystals; 24-hour urine collection for recurrent stone formers.
- Blood tests: Kidney function and metabolic workup as indicated.
- Stone analysis: If you pass or we remove a stone, lab analysis identifies type and directs prevention.
Kidney stone treatment options we offer
We individualize treatment based on stone size, location, composition, symptoms and patient health.
Conservative management (watchful waiting)
For small stones likely to pass (<4–6 mm depending on location), we may recommend hydration, pain control and medications like alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) to relax the ureter and improve passage. Regular follow-up imaging ensures the kidney is not obstructed.
Shockwave lithotripsy (SWL / ESWL)
Non-invasive external shock waves break stones into fragments that pass in urine. Suitable for many kidney and upper ureter stones depending on size and composition. Can require multiple sessions.
Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy (URS + Laser)
A flexible ureteroscope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter/kidney; a Holmium laser fragments stones which are removed or left to pass. Ideal for ureteral stones and many renal stones — high stone clearance, short recovery, often same-day discharge.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Recommended for large renal stones (including staghorn calculi). A small incision in the back allows a nephroscope into the kidney; stones are fragmented and suctioned out. Best success for large stone burden.
Laparoscopic / Robotic / Open surgery
Rarely required today, used only when less invasive methods fail or anatomy dictates.
Why laser lithotripsy is commonly recommended
Laser lithotripsy (Holmium laser) is extremely precise, works through the ureteroscope, and is effective across stone types and locations. Advantages:
- High stone-free rates for many stone types
- Minimally invasive — no external incisions
- Short hospital stay; quick recovery
- Lower risk of major complications when performed by experienced endourologists
How we decide the best treatment for you
Decision factors include:
- Stone size (mm)
- Stone location (kidney pelvis, calyx, ureter)
- Stone density on CT (Hounsfield units)
- Presence of infection or obstruction
- Patient comorbidities and preferences
Dr. Saini reviews your imaging and offers a clear recommendation — sometimes combining procedures or planning staged treatment for large stones.
Costs & insurance (how pricing works)
Treatment cost varies with procedure, facility choice (hospital vs. day-care), anesthesia and consumables (stent, disposables). We provide:
- Transparent estimates at consultation
- Insurance support and cash-pay options
- Help with pre-authorization where applicable
Note: Exact cost ranges are discussed after imaging and a clinical review — contact us for a tailored estimate.
What to expect on the procedure day & recovery
- Pre-op: Blood tests, anesthesia review and instructions (fasting etc.)
- Anesthesia: Regional or general depending on procedure.
- Procedure time: Typically 30–120 minutes depending on complexity.
- Post-op: Most URS and laser cases are same-day; PCNL may require overnight stay. Temporary stents are commonly used and removed after a few days.
- Recovery: Return to routine activity in a few days for URS; 1–2 weeks for PCNL. Expect some blood in urine and mild discomfort while fragments pass.
Outcomes & safety
Dr. Saini and the team follow evidence-based protocols to maximize stone-free rates and minimize complications. We discuss:
- Expected success (stone-free) rates for your procedure
- Possible risks: bleeding, infection, temporary stent discomfort, rare ureteral injury
- Steps we take to reduce risk: peri-operative antibiotics, careful imaging, and follow up.
Preventing future stones (long-term plan)
Prevention is essential. We provide personalized plans:
- Hydration targets and fluid strategies
- Dietary adjustments (manage oxalates, sodium, animal protein)
- Medications for specific metabolic issues (potassium citrate, thiazide diuretics, allopurinol)
- 24-hour urine testing for recurrent stone formers
Know the doctor — Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini (experience & expertise)
Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini brings over a decade of focused urology experience and has performed over 21,000 surgeries across endourology, robotic urology, uro-oncology and reconstructive procedures. His qualifications:
- MBBS, MS (Surgery) — King George Medical College, Lucknow
- MCh (Urology) — All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
- DNB (Genitourinary Surgery)
- ~4 years as Assistant Professor, Department of Urology, AIIMS, before transitioning to private practice.
Areas of interest and procedures:
- EndoUrology and minimally invasive stone surgery (URS + laser, PCNL, SWL)
- Robotic and reconstructive urology
- Urooncology, male infertility, and penile curvature treatment
Why choose Dr. Saini: Vast surgical volume, academic training at premier institutions and a focus on minimally invasive, patient-centric care lead to better outcomes, faster recovery and excellent patient support.
Patient stories & testimonials
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the best kidney stone treatment?
A: The “best” treatment depends on stone size, location and type. Small
stones may pass with fluids and medications; stones that are larger, blocked, or infected
usually need an intervention like URS + laser, SWL or PCNL. Dr. Saini recommends the option
with the highest stone-free rate and lowest risk for your case.
Q2: How does laser kidney stone surgery work?
A: A thin ureteroscope reaches the stone, and a Holmium laser fragments it
into passable pieces or dust. Pieces are removed with tiny baskets if needed. Most patients
go home the same day.
Q3: Is laser lithotripsy painful?
A: Procedures are done under anesthesia. Post-op discomfort is usually mild
and managed with medications; temporary stents can cause urinary urgency or discomfort until
removed.
Q4: How long does recovery take?
A: Many laser ureteroscopy patients return to normal activities in 48–72
hours. PCNL recovery is longer (1–2 weeks). We give specific recovery plans tailored to your
treatment.
Q5: How much does kidney stone laser treatment cost in Delhi?
A: Costs vary by stone complexity and hospital choice. We provide a
personalized estimate after reviewing imaging. Insurance support and flexible payment
options may be available.
Q6: Can I prevent future stones?
A: Yes — through hydration, dietary changes, and, when indicated,
medications guided by metabolic testing (24-hour urine).
Q7: Do you offer emergency appointments?
A: Yes. Call or WhatsApp us for urgent evaluation — especially if you have
fever, severe pain, or inability to pass urine.
What Our Heroes say about us
Choose RIRS to treat Kidney stones in Delhi.
Schedule a Consultation today at Excel Advanced Urology Centre. Schedule ConsultationExplore cutting-edge solutions for RIRS at the renowned Excel Advanced Urology Centre in Delhi
Take the first step towards better health by scheduling a consultation below Schedule ConsultationProcedure
- Initial Examination At your consultation visit, we will check your kidney function and a screening ultrasound to see the number of stones and size. During the comprehensive urology examination, we will measure the density of your stones to ensure the best laser setting to remove them. We will also make a roadmap of the approach of your kidneys (map of the KUB) and check the overall health of your kidneys.
- Before the Procedure It’s important to be aware of any potential risks and side effects and to discuss these with your RIRS provider. You should also have realistic expectations of the outcome and be prepared to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding post-operative care and follow-up visits.
- Day of the Procedure
RIRS is a 2-step process:
- Step 1: Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini uses the digital chip on tip ureteroscope to access the ureter calibre (ureter is a pipe which connects the kidney to the bladder) If the ureter is tight Dr Saini would like to put a double J stent and defer the RIRS for 2 weeks.
- Step 2: If the ureter is of good calibre then Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini will pass a ureteral access sheath in the ureter and introduce a flexible chip on tip ureteroscope to access the kidney and stone. Once all the stones are visualized a 200-micron laser fibre is introduced through the ureteroscope to reach the stone and High power super pulse TFL laser 60 W is used to powder the stone into dust. Once all the stone is cleared a DJ stent is placed and an indwelling catheter is placed after the procedure
Yes, if the surgery is done under regional anesthesia patients can see the procedure on screen.
After the ProcedureAfter your RIRS procedure, you’ll be taken to our recovery room, where your post-operative instructions are explained in detail. Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini will examine you and then you will be shifted to your room for overnight stay. You’ll need to have someone with you to assist you in getting home following your RIRS surgery. When you arrive home, you should plan on taking 2-3 days off with good sleep for 6- 8 hours, during which a lot of healing will occur. You may experience mild discomfort (blood in urine , burning, pinkish urine. Pain in back and below navels) during this time, and we recommend you follow the post op instructions as much as possible to aid in your recovery. 10 days after your RIRS surgery, you’ll return to the centre for a postoperative examination of 15 minutes to see how your healing is progressing. Dr. Ashish Kumar Saini will assess your progress, answer any follow-up questions you might have, and review the use of medication and advice for the removal of DJ stents (usually after 2 weeks of RIRS). Patients can return to normal daily activities within 1 week of their procedure.
Advantages of RIRS
- Minimally Invasive: RIRS is a minimally invasive surgical technique, requiring no incisions. Instead, a flexible ureteroscope is passed through the natural urinary passages, minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues and reducing recovery time.
- High Success Rates: RIRS has shown high success rates in treating smaller to medium-sized kidney stones, particularly those located in the renal pelvis or calyces. The procedure effectively allows the urologist to visualize and treat stones in the kidney.
- Versatility: RIRS is versatile and can be used to treat various types of kidney stones, including those that may be challenging to reach with other methods. It is suitable for both simple and complex stones.
- Short Recovery Time: Compared to more invasive procedures like percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL), RIRS typically involves a shorter recovery time. Patients often experience less pain and can resume normal activities sooner after the procedure.
- Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Since RIRS is a minimally invasive procedure, it generally causes less pain and discomfort than traditional open surgeries. Most patients can manage postoperative pain with mild pain medications.
- Lower Infection Risk: The risk of infection is relatively low with RIRS. Antibiotics may be prescribed before or after the procedure to further reduce the risk of infection.
- Outpatient Procedure: In many cases, RIRS can be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day as the procedure. This can contribute to increased convenience and decreased healthcare costs.
- Lower Risk of Scarring: RIRS avoids the need for external incisions, minimizing the risk of visible scarring. This can be particularly important for patients concerned about cosmetic outcomes.
- Applicability for Special Populations: RIRS is suitable for a wide range of patients, including those who may not be candidates for more invasive procedures. It can be used in pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with specific health conditions.
Side effects of RIRS
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is generally considered a safe procedure, but like any medical intervention, it may be associated with certain side effects and potential complications. It’s important to note that the occurrence of these side effects can vary from patient to patient, and many individuals may not experience any adverse effects. Some potential side effects and complications of RIRS include.- Bleeding: Mild bleeding is common during and after RIRS. Most cases of bleeding are minimal and resolve on their own, but in some instances, additional intervention may be necessary.
- Infection: While the risk of infection is relatively low, as with any surgical procedure, there is a possibility of developing a urinary tract infection. Antibiotics are often prescribed before or after the procedure to minimize this risk.
- Pain: Some discomfort or pain in the urinary tract is normal after RIRS. Pain is usually managed with pain medications prescribed by the healthcare provider.
- Ureteral Injury: There is a small risk of injury to the ureter during the insertion of the ureteroscope. Skilled surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk, but it can occur in rare cases.
- Residual Stones: Despite the effectiveness of RIRS, there is a chance that small stone fragments may be left behind. These fragments may pass spontaneously or require additional intervention.
- Urinary Stricture: In rare cases, scarring or narrowing of the ureter (urinary stricture) may occur as a result of the procedure, leading to potential blockage and requiring further treatment.
- Instrumentation Trauma: The use of medical instruments during RIRS may cause trauma to the surrounding tissues, potentially leading to irritation or inflammation.
- Reaction to Anesthesia: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of adverse reactions to anesthesia. This risk is typically assessed by the anesthesiologist before the surgery.
- Prolonged Recovery: While RIRS generally involves a shorter recovery time compared to more invasive procedures, some patients may experience a longer recovery period, particularly if complications arise.
Is RIRS Safe
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) is generally considered a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of kidney stones. However, like any medical intervention, it carries potential risks and complications. The safety of RIRS depends on various factors, including the patient’s overall health, the characteristics of the kidney stones, and the skill and experience of the surgical team.- Effectiveness: RIRS is often effective in treating smaller to medium-sized kidney stones, particularly those located in the renal pelvis or calyces. The procedure allows the urologist to access and remove or fragment stones using a flexible ureteroscope.
- Minimally Invasive: RIRS is a minimally invasive procedure, which means it is associated with fewer complications and a shorter recovery period compared to more invasive surgeries like open surgery or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL).
- Anesthesia Risks: Like any surgical procedure, RIRS involves the use of anesthesia. Anesthesia-related risks will depend on the patient’s health status, and the anesthesiologist will assess and manage these risks.
- Infection Risk: While infection is a potential risk with any surgery, RIRS is generally associated with a low risk of infection. Antibiotics may be prescribed before or after the procedure to minimize this risk.
- Bleeding: Some degree of bleeding may occur during or after RIRS. While significant bleeding is uncommon, patients may experience minor bleeding that usually resolves on its own or can be managed by the medical team.
- Ureteral Injury: There is a small risk of injury to the ureter during the insertion of the ureteroscope. Experienced surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk.
- Residual Stone Fragments: In some cases, small fragments of the stone may be left behind after RIRS. These fragments may pass on their own or require additional interventions.
Explore cutting-edge solutions for RIRS at the renowned Excel Advanced Urology Centre in Delhi
Take the first step towards better health by scheduling a consultation below Schedule Consultation
When RIRS is needed?
- Stone Size and Location: RIRS is often used for the treatment of smaller to medium-sized kidney stones, particularly those located in the renal pelvis or calyces. The procedure is effective for stones that may be challenging to reach with other methods.
- Ineffectiveness of Conservative Measures: When conservative measures such as increased fluid intake, medications, or lifestyle modifications fail to alleviate symptoms or facilitate the passage of kidney stones, RIRS may be considered as an intervention.
- Persistent or Recurrent Stones: If a person has a history of recurrent kidney stones or experiences persistent stones that do not pass spontaneously, RIRS may be recommended to remove or break up the stones.
- Obstruction and Hydronephrosis: Kidney stones causing obstruction of the urinary tract, leading to symptoms such as hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney), may require intervention. RIRS can help alleviate the obstruction and manage related symptoms.
- Failure of Other Treatment Modalities: If other non-invasive treatments such as shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) or ureteroscopy have been attempted but are not successful or are deemed inappropriate for the specific case, RIRS may be considered.
- Large or Complex Stones: While RIRS is generally suitable for smaller stones, advancements in technology and surgical techniques have expanded its applicability to larger or more complex stones in certain cases.
- Patients Unfit for Other Procedures: Some patients may not be suitable candidates for other surgical procedures like percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) or extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) due to health concerns or anatomical factors, making RIRS a preferred option.
What would disqualify me from RIRS Surgery?
- Stone Size and Location: RIRS may not be suitable for very large stones or stones located in certain parts of the kidney that are challenging to access.
- Anatomical Abnormalities: If you have certain anatomical abnormalities or variations in the urinary tract, it might affect the feasibility and safety of the procedure.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as bleeding disorders, severe heart or lung disease, or active urinary tract infections might be contraindications for RIRS.
- Pregnancy: RIRS is generally avoided during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus.
- Previous Surgeries: If you’ve had extensive previous abdominal or pelvic surgeries, the scar tissue may complicate the procedure or make it less effective.
- Allergies or Sensitivities: Allergies to contrast agents or other substances used during the procedure may be a concern.
- Inability to Cooperate: Patients need to be able to cooperate during the procedure, which involves being under anesthesia but responsive.
- General Health Status: Overall health, including factors such as poor general health, advanced age, or significant comorbidities, may affect the suitability of RIRS.
How much does the RIRS cost in Delhi?
The cost of RIRS surgery is determined by various factors. However this treatment is reasonable and easily accessible to the general public. The cost of RIRS surgery in India may vary from Rs. 90,000 to above Rs. 1 lakh depending on the characteristics of the amount/size of stones, etc.