OHIP-Covered Care · Kidney Stones
Kidney Stone Treatment
From diagnosis to stone-free, in Mississauga
Ureteroscopy, PCNL and shock wave lithotripsy, plus long-term stone-prevention care.
Our urologists diagnose and treat kidney stones of all sizes for patients across Mississauga and the GTA, from stones that can be managed conservatively to those requiring surgery.
Overview
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones (also called renal calculi) are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They range from as small as a grain of sand to larger stones that can partially or fully block the flow of urine. Stones form when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together.
Common contributing factors include not drinking enough fluids, a diet high in sodium or animal protein, a family or personal history of stones, and certain underlying medical conditions. Kidney stones are common and can affect anyone, though they occur somewhat more often in men.
Common condition
One of the most frequent reasons for a urology referral in Ontario.
Often manageable
Many small stones pass on their own with monitoring and hydration.
Treatable when needed
Minimally invasive surgical options exist for stones that don't pass.
Symptoms
Signs you may have a kidney stone
Small stones may cause no symptoms at all and can pass unnoticed. As a stone moves or grows, it can cause:
Sudden, severe pain in the back or side, below the ribs, that may radiate to the lower abdomen and groin
Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
Pink, red or brown blood in the urine (hematuria)
Nausea and vomiting
A persistent need to urinate, urinating more often, or urinating in small amounts
Pain or a burning sensation while urinating
Fever and chills, if an infection is present
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Fever, chills or an inability to keep fluids down alongside stone symptoms can signal a urinary infection behind an obstructing stone and needs prompt medical attention. If you have a referral question or want to discuss symptoms, contact our office; for urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical care.
Treatment Options
How we treat kidney stones
Treatment depends on the size, location and composition of the stone, as well as your symptoms. Our urologists offer the full range of options, from monitoring to minimally invasive surgery.
Non-surgical
Observation & Medical Expulsive Therapy
Many small stones (generally under about 5mm) can pass on their own with increased fluid intake, pain control and time. Your urologist may prescribe a medication such as an alpha-blocker to help relax the ureter and ease passage, along with a plan to monitor the stone with imaging.
Non-invasive
Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL)
SWL uses focused shock waves delivered from outside the body to break a stone into smaller fragments that can then pass more easily in the urine. It is typically done as an outpatient procedure and does not require any incisions.
Minimally invasive
Ureteroscopy (URS)
A thin scope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter or kidney to locate the stone directly. A laser is used to fragment the stone, and pieces are removed or left to pass naturally. A temporary stent is often placed afterward to support healing. This is one of the most common procedures we perform for kidney stones.
Surgical
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
For larger or more complex stones, PCNL accesses the kidney through a small incision in the back to remove the stone directly. It is performed in hospital under general anesthesia and is generally the most effective option for large stone burdens.
| Observation | SWL | Ureteroscopy | PCNL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incisions | None | None | None | One small incision |
| Anesthesia | None | Sedation | General | General |
| Typically same-day | ||||
| Best suited to | Small stones | Small–medium stones | Small–medium stones | Large or complex stones |
This is a general guide. The right option for you depends on your specific stone and health history, and is determined together with your urologist.
Stone Prevention
Reducing your risk of future stones
If you have had a kidney stone once, you are more likely to form another. General, widely recommended prevention strategies include:
Drinking enough fluids throughout the day, primarily water, to keep urine dilute
Moderating sodium (salt) intake
Moderating animal protein intake
Eating a balanced diet with adequate calcium from food sources
Following any specific dietary guidance from your urologist based on your stone type
Attending follow-up appointments and imaging as recommended
Where a stone is analyzed after treatment, its composition can help guide more specific, personalized prevention advice.
Answers
Frequently asked questions
Get in Touch
Have a referral for kidney stones?
Ask your family physician to fax a referral to our office, or send us a message using the form below and our team will follow up.
Clinic Location
101 Queensway W, Suite 400, Mississauga, ON L5B 2V2
Paid parking garage within the building
- Response time
- Our office typically replies within one business day.
- OHIP-covered
- Kidney stone diagnosis and surgical treatment are covered under OHIP.
- Referrals
- Ask your family physician to fax a referral to the clinic.