Treatment Overview
Bladder stone surgery is a medical procedure to remove stones from the urinary bladder, which can cause pain, urinary tract infections, hematuria (blood in urine), and urinary obstruction. In Korea, treatment options include minimally invasive endoscopic procedures and, in rare cases, open surgery. Korean hospitals are internationally recognized for their advanced urological technology and highly skilled surgeons, ensuring safe, effective, and minimally invasive stone removal for both local and international patients.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of bladder stone surgery is to eliminate stones and relieve associated urinary symptoms. Benefits include:
- Complete removal of bladder stones
- Relief from urinary pain, infection, and obstruction
- Minimally invasive options that reduce hospital stay and recovery time
- Reduced risk of recurrence with proper evaluation and post-surgical management
- Access to experienced urologists and advanced medical technology
Ideal Candidates
Bladder stone surgery is suitable for patients who:
- Have stones causing urinary symptoms, infections, or obstruction
- Are unable to pass stones naturally
- Require minimally invasive or endoscopic procedures
- Have recurrent stones that need surgical intervention
- International patients seeking expert urological care in Korea
Possible Risks & Complications
Although generally safe, bladder stone surgery carries potential risks, including:
- Bleeding during or after surgery
- Infection at the surgical site or urinary tract
- Injury to the bladder or urethra
- Urinary retention or difficulty urinating temporarily
- Rare recurrence of bladder stones
Korean hospitals minimize these risks through careful preoperative evaluation, precise surgical techniques, and postoperative monitoring.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korea uses advanced technology for bladder stone removal:
- Transurethral Cystolitholapaxy: Minimally invasive endoscopic procedure to break and remove stones
- Holmium Laser Lithotripsy: High-precision laser to fragment stones for easy removal
- Percutaneous Suprapubic Surgery: Rarely used for large or complex stones
- Advanced Imaging (Ultrasound, CT, X-ray): Ensures accurate diagnosis and guidance during surgery
- Endoscopic Equipment: Enables minimally invasive, precise stone removal
Treatment Process in Korea
The typical process for international patients includes:
- Initial Consultation: Review of symptoms, imaging, and medical history
- Preoperative Testing: Blood work, urinalysis, and imaging studies
- Surgery: Performed under general or spinal anesthesia using minimally invasive techniques
- Hospital Stay: Usually 1–3 days depending on procedure and recovery
- Follow-Up: Imaging and urine tests to ensure complete stone removal and monitor recovery
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery after bladder stone surgery includes:
- Short hospital stay and quick return to normal activities
- Pain management and monitoring for urinary discomfort
- Drinking plenty of water to prevent stone recurrence
- Follow-up evaluations to ensure bladder healing and proper urinary function
- Guidance for international patients on post-discharge care and diet
Results & Longevity
Patients benefit from:
- Complete removal of bladder stones
- Relief from pain, infection, and urinary obstruction
- Low complication rates with minimally invasive procedures
- Short recovery time and early return to daily activities
- Long-term urinary health with proper follow-up and lifestyle management
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a leading destination for bladder stone surgery because:
- Hospitals have highly skilled urologists specializing in minimally invasive procedures
- Advanced laser and endoscopic technologies ensure safe and effective stone removal
- Short hospital stays and fast recovery enhance patient experience
- Comprehensive care and support for international patients, including translation and concierge services
- Competitive and transparent treatment costs compared to Western countries
Cost Range
Approximate costs for bladder stone surgery in Korea:
- Endoscopic Cystolitholapaxy: $2,000–$5,000 USD
- Holmium Laser Lithotripsy: $3,000–$6,000 USD
- Open Bladder Surgery (rare): $5,000–$10,000 USD
Costs generally include surgery, anesthesia, hospital stay, and preoperative tests; additional consultations may incur extra fees.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals for bladder stone surgery include:
- Samsung Medical Center, Seoul: Expertise in laser and endoscopic bladder stone removal
- Asan Medical Center, Seoul: Advanced minimally invasive urology care
- Severance Hospital, Seoul: High-precision bladder stone lithotripsy
- Seoul National University Hospital: Comprehensive urological services including stone management
- CHA Bundang Medical Center: State-of-the-art facilities for international medical tourists
