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16 mm Kidney Stone Treatment

Kidney stones are the most common urological condition which causes pain and discomfort. These stones are composed of minerals and salts that don’t pass through the urine. Kidney stones smaller or up to 5 mm can pass through the ureter. However, larger stones do not quickly move through the urinary tract and must be surgically disintegrated. Larger kidney stones of 16 mm or more can cause excruciating pain, urinary infection, renal scarring, and more. Hence a 16 mm kidney should be treated immediately without any delay. If you are suffering from a 16 mm kidney stone, get in touch with an expert urologist at Pristyn Care for safe and advanced treatment.
16 mm Kidney Stone Image

Kidney Stone Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis

If your symptoms indicate the presence of kidney stones, the urologist may ask you to undergo diagnostic tests to confirm your case and recommend a proper treatment plan.

Blood tests – To determine calcium and uric acid levels to check overall kidney health. 

Urine test – A 24-hour urine culture is done to find out if there is any kidney or urinary infection.

Imaging tests – CT scans, ultrasounds, and MRIs allow the doctor to assess the size and location of kidney stone in the urinary tract

 

Surgery

A 16 mm kidney stone requires surgery to be removed. The following are some of the surgical options for kidney stones out of which the kidney stone doctor would determine the best procedure after diagnosing the condition.

ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy): It is a non-invasive surgery involving the usage of high-intensity sound waves which are directed to disintegrate kidney stones into tiny fragments that can further pass out with urine. Doctors recommend ESWL when oral medication is ineffective and is suitable for 6-8 mm kidney stones. 

Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy (URSL): It is an advanced procedure to remove kidney stones that are not dissolved by non-surgical treatment. In URSL, the surgeon uses an exact laser treatment to remove the kidney stone lodged in the ureter. It is recommended for kidney stones of 7-10 mm. 

Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS): This advanced surgical technique removes moderate to large kidney stones (up to 14 mm). This method is preferred to break stones lodged inside the kidney, ureter, or urinary bladder. In RIRS, the surgeon uses a ureteroscope to remove kidney stones with negligible risks.  

PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy): It is a minimally invasive technique preferred to remove large stones in the kidneys or upper ureter. In PCNL, the surgeon makes a minor incision that enables the doctor to break stones into smaller fragments. This procedure is performed for kidney stones of 16 to 20 mm.      

Why Pristyn Care?

Delivering Seamless Surgical Experience in India

01.

Minimally-Invasive Procedures

We offer treatment through various non-invasive and minimally-invasive methods, including RIRS, ESWL, PCNL, etc., to ensure patients' comfort by reducing complications and downtime.

02.

Association With Top Hospitals

We are associated with the top hospitals in the city. This lets our doctors provide the best treatments for kidney stones using the most cutting-edge technology and ensure the best treatment outcomes. Our associated hospitals are well-equipped with all the facilities that the patients may need for a hassle-free treatment journey.

03.

The Best Urologists In Your City

Our team consists of the best urologists in the city, who are highly trained in treating even the most complex cases of kidney stones. They have 8+ years of experience in providing effective diagnosis and treatment for kidney stones.

04.

All Insurance Accepted

We accept all insurance for kidney stone treatment. We also have a dedicated insurance team to assist patients throughout the insurance claim procedure and make the process smooth for the patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 16 mm kidney stone dangerous?

Yes. A 16 mm stone is considered a large kidney stone and carries a high risk of medical complications. Because it is much wider than the ureter, it frequently causes complete urinary tract obstructions, severe kidney swelling (hydronephrosis), and recurrent UTIs. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent kidney damage or a life-threatening systemic blood infection called urosepsis.

Can you pass a 16 mm kidney stone naturally?

Virtually never. The tubes that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder (ureters) are only about 3 to 4 mm wide. While tiny stones under 5 mm frequently pass on their own, a 16 mm stone is roughly the size of a marble. It is physically too large to travel through your urinary tract without getting stuck, meaning medical intervention is almost always required to break it up or remove it.

What is the best treatment for a 16 mm kidney stone?

Treatment depends on the stone’s location, hardness, and your overall health, but the most effective options include:

PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy):

  • Gold standard for large stones (like 16 mm+)
  • Involves removing the stone through a small incision in the back

URS (Ureteroscopy) with Laser Lithotripsy:

  • A thin scope is passed through the urinary tract
  • Laser breaks the stone into smaller pieces

ESWL (Shock Wave Lithotripsy):

  • Less commonly used for large stones
  • May require multiple sessions and is less effective for 16 mm stones

Your urologist will recommend the most suitable approach based on imaging and symptoms.

How long does 16 mm kidney stone removal take?

Procedure time: Usually 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the method

Hospital stay:

  • URS: Same day or 1 day
  • PCNL: 1–3 days typically

Recovery time:

  • Light activities in a few days
  • Full recovery may take 1–2 weeks

What happens if a 16 mm kidney stone is left untreated?

Ignoring a stone of this size can cause irreversible damage. Over time, the persistent blockage causes urine to back up, creating intense pressure that leads to renal atrophy (the permanent shrinking and death of functional kidney tissue). Additionally, stagnant urine behind the stone inevitably becomes infected. An infected, obstructed kidney can quickly trigger urosepsis, a medical emergency that can lead to rapid organ failure if not treated immediately with IV antibiotics and drainage.

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Medically Reviewed By
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Dr. Sumit Sharma
MBBS, MS-General Surgery & M.Ch-Urology
25 Years Experience Overall
Last Updated : May 26, 2026

Is a 16 mm kidney stone dangerous?

A 16 mm kidney stone is considered large and potentially dangerous. Stones of this size rarely pass on their own and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Here’s a clear breakdown of the risks:

Urinary Obstruction (Blocked Urine Flow)

A 16 mm stone can get lodged in the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder), blocking the flow of urine.
This can cause:

  • Severe, persistent flank pain
  • Difficulty or inability to urinate
  • Pressure buildup in the kidney

If the blockage is complete, it becomes a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.


Hydronephrosis (Kidney Swelling)

When urine cannot drain properly due to obstruction, it accumulates in the kidney, leading to hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney).

Why this is dangerous:

  • Increased pressure damages kidney tissues
  • Prolonged swelling can reduce kidney function
  • May lead to permanent damage if untreated

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

A blocked urinary tract creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth, increasing the risk of infection.

Warning signs include:

  • Fever and chills
  • Burning sensation during urination
  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

If infection spreads to the kidney (pyelonephritis) or bloodstream, it can become life-threatening (sepsis).

Risk of Kidney Damage

Long-standing obstruction and repeated infections can result in progressive kidney damage.

Possible outcomes:

  • Reduced kidney function
  • Permanent scarring
  • In severe cases, loss of kidney function

Who Is More Likely to Develop a 16 mm Kidney Stone? (Risk Factors)

A stone reaching 16 mm usually develops over time, often due to persistent risk factors. You’re more likely to form large kidney stones if you have:

Lifestyle & Dietary Factors

  • Low water intake (dehydration): Concentrated urine promotes crystal formation
  • High salt (sodium) diet: Increases calcium excretion in urine
  • Excess animal protein: Raises uric acid levels
  • High oxalate foods: Such as spinach, nuts, and chocolate (can contribute to calcium oxalate stones)

Medical Conditions

  • Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Obesity or metabolic syndrome
  • Gout (high uric acid levels)
  • Hyperparathyroidism (high calcium levels in blood)
  • Digestive diseases: Like Crohn’s disease or chronic diarrhea affecting absorption

Personal & Genetic Factors

  • Family history of kidney stones
  • Previous history of stones (higher chance of recurrence and growth)
  • Male gender (higher risk overall, though women are increasingly affected)
  • Age 30–60 years (peak risk group)

Medications & Supplements

  • Excessive use of:
    • Calcium supplements
    • Vitamin D
    • Certain diuretics or antacids

 When to See a Doctor Immediately

Seek urgent medical care if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Severe, unbearable pain in the lower back or side (renal colic)
  • Fever with chills (possible infection)
  • Nausea and persistent vomiting
  • Blood in urine (red, pink, or brown urine)
  • Difficulty passing urine or very little urine output
  • Burning sensation while urinating with fever
  • Sudden worsening of symptoms

These signs may indicate urinary obstruction, infection, or kidney damage, all of which can become serious quickly if not treated.

List of Kidney Stones Doctors

Sr.No.Doctor NameRegistration NumberRatingsExperienceBook Appointment
1Dr. Sumit SharmaHN-0088125.025 + Years
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2Dr. Gulhane Parag Vijay2009/03/14514.9--
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3Dr. Salecha PriyankTSMC/FMR/201234.817 + Years
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4Dr. Sudhakar G V379635.032 + Years
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5Dr. Saurabh MittalDMC/R/49424.518 + Years
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6Dr. Naveen M N827315.017 + Years
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7Dr. Manjegowda Dileep951474.816 + Years
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8Dr. Raju R903445.015 + Years
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9Dr. Varun Kumar Katiyar1011385.014 + Years
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10Dr. Ramakrishna RajeshAPMC/FMR/883654.513 + Years
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11Dr. Prasad Mangesh Bhrame2016/07/16564.511 + Years
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Read More

What Our Patients Say

  • SR

    sashi rekha

    verified
    5/5

    Best place best staff experience very happy

    City : Bangalore
    Treated by : Dr. Raju R
  • DH

    Dhanesh, 30 Yrs

    verified
    4/5

    Treatment se pehle pain unbearable tha, ab kaafi relief hai. Overall experience achha raha.

    City : Pune
  • VI

    Vignesh

    verified
    4/5

    Stone problem ke liye aaya tha, pehle bahut pain hota tha. Ab treatment ke baad condition kaafi better hai

    City : Bangalore
    Treated by : Dr. G.R Manjunath
  • H

    Harsh Verma Rana

    verified
    4/5

    Exceptional PCNL treatment at Pristyn Care, Indore. highly experienced surgeon and the support staff was friendly.

    City : Indore

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