Post-Surgery Inflammation After Kidney Stone Removal: What to Know

Persistent inflammation after kidney stone surgery?

Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond to my questions.
My father underwent surgery at a hospital last year in July to remove a bladder stone the size of a date.
A month later, he had a lithotripsy for a smaller stone in the ureter.
To this day, he continues to experience inflammation (as indicated by urinalysis) during his monthly follow-up visits.
After each visit, the doctor prescribes oral antibiotics.
My father reports that he experiences dull pain when walking or performing larger movements, such as sneezing, and he feels weakness in his limbs.
Lying down alleviates the pain.
Recently, he has also been coughing occasionally.
Is there a connection? Could this be due to a recurrence of other complications following the surgery? I feel helpless and frustrated watching him go through this...

Molly, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/01

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology

The follow-up urine test indicates a urinary tract infection, but it does not necessarily mean there is kidney inflammation (typically, kidney inflammation is associated with severe lower back pain, fever, chills, and shaking).
Pain during sneezing or vigorous movements, as well as weakness in the limbs, is generally not related to kidney stones.
Coughing is also not a postoperative complication.

Reply Date: 2017/05/01

More Info

Post-surgery inflammation after kidney stone removal can be a concerning issue, especially when it persists for an extended period. In your father's case, it appears that he has undergone two procedures: one for the removal of a large bladder stone and another for a smaller stone in the ureter. The ongoing inflammation, as indicated by the monthly urine tests, suggests that there may be residual issues that need to be addressed.

Firstly, it is important to understand that after any surgical procedure, especially those involving the urinary tract, some degree of inflammation is expected. This inflammation can be due to the body's natural healing response, but it can also indicate an underlying problem, such as an infection or the presence of residual stone fragments. The fact that your father is being prescribed antibiotics regularly suggests that his healthcare provider is concerned about a possible urinary tract infection (UTI), which can occur after stone removal procedures.

The symptoms your father is experiencing—pain during movement, weakness in the limbs, and occasional coughing—could be related to several factors. The pain during activities like walking or sneezing may be due to irritation or inflammation in the urinary tract or surrounding tissues. It's not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort as they recover, especially if there are still fragments of stone present or if there is ongoing inflammation.

The weakness in the limbs and the need to lie down to alleviate pain could indicate that he is experiencing systemic effects from the inflammation or infection. If the body is fighting an infection, it can lead to fatigue and a general feeling of malaise. The occasional cough may not be directly related to the kidney stone surgery but could be a separate issue, such as a respiratory infection or allergy. However, if there is any concern that the cough is related to his overall health status, it would be wise to discuss this with his physician.

Regarding the potential for complications, it is essential to monitor for signs of more serious issues, such as recurrent infections or complications from the surgery. If your father's symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be warranted. This could include imaging studies to check for residual stones or other complications, as well as a thorough review of his medical history and current medications.

In terms of management, it is crucial for your father to maintain good hydration, as this can help flush out any remaining stone fragments and reduce the risk of further infections. Additionally, following up with his healthcare provider regularly is essential to ensure that any ongoing issues are addressed promptly. If he continues to experience significant discomfort or if new symptoms arise, it may be necessary to consider additional interventions, such as further imaging or even a referral to a specialist in urology.

In conclusion, while some inflammation and discomfort can be expected after kidney stone surgery, persistent symptoms warrant further investigation. It is essential to maintain open communication with his healthcare provider and to advocate for his health by seeking additional evaluations if necessary. Your father's situation is complex, and ongoing monitoring and appropriate management are key to ensuring his recovery and preventing future complications.

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