How long does bladder stone surgery take?

The duration of bladder stone surgery depends on the size, number, and complexity of the stones and the treatment technique used. A typical cystolitholapaxy may take approximately 15 minutes to 1 hour, although more complex cases can take longer.

Bladder stone removal is commonly performed using an endoscopic procedure called cystolitholapaxy. A cystoscope is passed through the urethra into the bladder, where the stone is fragmented and removed.

How long does cystolitholapaxy take?

A straightforward cystolitholapaxy generally takes around 15–60 minutes.

However, the actual operating time can vary depending on:

• Size of the bladder stone.
• Number of stones.
• Stone hardness and characteristics.
• Location of the stones.
• Difficulty removing the fragments.
• Whether another urinary procedure is performed at the same time.

Can large bladder stones take longer to remove?

Yes. Larger or multiple stones may require more time because they need to be fragmented into smaller pieces before the fragments can be removed.

Complex stones may also require a different surgical approach.

Is bladder stone surgery always completed in one procedure?

Not necessarily. In many cases, the stone can be completely cleared during one procedure. However, very large or complex stones may occasionally require additional treatment.

How long will I stay in the hospital?

Hospital stay varies by procedure and patient.

For straightforward cases, some patients may be discharged the same day, while others may stay for 1–3 days, particularly when the stone is larger or the procedure is more complex.

A temporary urinary catheter may also be required after the procedure.

Does the anesthesia time make the overall hospital time longer?

Yes. The procedure itself may take 15–60 minutes, but the total time at the hospital will be longer because it also includes:

• Pre-operative preparation.
• Anesthesia.
• The procedure.
• Recovery from anesthesia.
• Monitoring afterward.

The exact schedule varies between patients.

Can another procedure be performed at the same time?

Yes, in selected patients. For example, if an enlarged prostate is contributing to bladder stone formation, the urologist may determine that prostate treatment should be performed along with stone removal.

What happens after bladder stone surgery?

After cystolitholapaxy, some patients may experience temporary:

• Burning during urination.
• Increased urinary frequency.
• Mild discomfort.
• Blood-tinged urine.

A catheter may be used temporarily depending on the procedure and the patient's ability to urinate normally.

Does a Shorter Procedure Mean Better Treatment?

Not necessarily. The goal is to safely and effectively clear the stone and address the underlying cause, rather than simply completing the procedure as quickly as possible.

If incomplete bladder emptying caused the stone, the underlying problem should also be evaluated to reduce the chance of recurrence.

When Should I See a Urologist?

Consider a urological evaluation if you have:

• A confirmed bladder stone.
• Difficulty passing urine.
• Blood in the urine.
• Pain or burning during urination.
• Frequent urination.
• Recurrent urinary infections.
• Weak or interrupted urine flow.
• Recurrent bladder stones.

Sudden inability to pass urine requires prompt medical attention.

SCI International Hospital

At SCI International Hospital, New Delhi, Dr. Gautam Banga, Senior Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, evaluates patients with bladder stones, urinary obstruction, enlarged prostate, urethral stricture, and recurrent urinary problems. After assessing the stone and underlying condition, the appropriate minimally invasive or surgical approach can be planned according to the patient's individual needs.