Kidney Stone Treatment in Athens, GA
What Are Kidney Stones?
When high levels of minerals and salt exist in the kidneys, they can form a clump of matter known as a kidney stone. These stones may stay inside of the kidney, where they will not cause any further harm.
The real problem begins when these kidney stones enter the ureter and block urine from traveling through the ureter to the bladder. This blockage caused by the kidney stone becomes very painful and can require surgery if they do not pass on their own.
Kidney stones affect more than ten percent of the American population and are becoming more common. The Urology Clinic has long been a leader in the treatment of stones, with the first office-based lithotripsy system in America. Our comprehensive facility allows us to manage most stones under one roof.
Meet Our Urologist
Board-certified Urologist David C. Allen, MD founded The Urology Clinic in 1984 and the Georgia Lithotripsy and Laser Center in 1990, both in Athens, GA. With over 35 years of experience, Dr. Allen specializes in the treatment and diagnosis of kidney stones. If you’re struggling with pain or discomfort that may be caused by kidney stones, then Dr. Allen may be able to help you, too! Contact The Urology Clinic today to schedule an appointment at our urology clinic in Athens, GA. Give us a call at (706) 543-2718.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Numerous factors contribute to stone formation, frequently with more than one present and may include the following:
- Metabolic factors (influenced by patient’s genetics)
- Environmental factors (such as mineral content in water)
- Dietary factors
- Urinary tract infection
- Anatomical differences
Kidney Stones Evaluation
The evaluation begins with a detailed history and physical examination and may include the following:
- Urinalysis
- Urine culture and sensitivity
- KUB
- CT scan
- Stone analysis
- 24-hour urine study
Kidney Stone Patient Testimonials
How Are Kidney Stones Treated?
The treatment option best suited for each patient is dependent on the stone size, location, and other health issues. These treatments may include the following:
- Medications
- Dietary management of stones
- Lithotripsy
- Ureteroscopy with stone extraction
- Ureteroscopy with laser stone fragmentation
- Ureteral stent
- Percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL)
- Open stone surgery
Schedule a Kidney Stones Consultation in Athens, GA
There are a variety of factors that lead to the formation of stones, and an individualized treatment plan needs to be made for each patient’s treatment and future stone prevention. The Urology Clinic offers unparalleled experience and expertise in the treatment of stones and the convenience of being able to treat most stones in our state-of-the-art facility.
To schedule an appointment with urologist David C. Allen, MD and discuss your kidney stones, call our office in Athens, GA today at (706) 543-2718. Dr. Allen is board-certified by the American Board of Urology and has more than 35 years of experience treating patients with kidney stones. Dr. Allen sees patients from Athens, Watkinsville, Danielsville, Jefferson, Winder, and the surrounding area.