Medical Expulsive Therapy for Kidney Stones

What is Medical Expulsive Therapy?

MET involves the use of sp ecific medications and lifestyle changes to encourage the natural expulsion of kidney stones through the urinary tract. The therapy is often complemented by adequate hydration and dietary modifications to ease the passage of stones and prevent recurrence.

When is MET Recommended? MET is particularly effective for:

• 2mm to 4mm stones: These stones often pass naturally with minimal assistance.

• 3.5mm to 5mm stones: MET significantly increases the likelihood of successful expulsion without pain.

• 6mm to 7mm stones: While these may take longer, MET combined with proper hydration can still be effective.

Medications Used in MET

1. Alpha-blockers: These relax the muscles in the ureter, facilitating the movement of stones.
2. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Reduce inflammation and alleviate pain during stone passage.
3. Medicines to Break Kidney Stones: Target specific types of stones, such as uric acid or calcium oxalate stones, to reduce their size.

The Truth About Syrups and Alternative Therapies

While some herbal syrups and alternative remedies like Ayurveda or homeopathy claim to dissolve or expel kidney stones, there is limited evidence to support their efficacy. In many cases, these approaches can delay effective treatment and increase the risk of complications such as infection or kidney damage. Evidence-based medicine, including MET under the supervision of a urologist, ensures scientifically proven outcomes and reduces the likelihood of permanent kidney damage.

Lifestyle Recommendations for MET

• Hydration: Drinking at least 2-3 liters of water daily is crucial for flushing out stones.

The Importance of Follow-Up

Without proper follow-up, undetected residual stones can grow larger or cause blockages, potentially leading to kidney damage or loss. Regular imaging, such as ultrasounds or CT scans, helps monitor progress and ensure complete stone clearance. At Shyam Speciality Hospital, we emphasize follow-up care to safeguard your kidney health.

Benefits of Medical Expulsive Therapy

• Non-Invasive: Eliminates the need for surgical procedures.

• Cost-Effective: A more affordable option compared to invasive treatments.

• Comfort: Less painful with fewer complications.

• Convenience: Allows patients to recover at home with proper guidance.

Robotic surgery for stone.

While MET is effective for many, it may not be ideal for:

• Stones larger than 7mm.
• Patients with severe urinary tract infections.
• Cases where stones cause complete urinary obstruction.