Kidney Stone Removal Surgery in Turkey: Cost, Top Doctors & VISA Guide

Kidney stones are a relatively common condition, affecting around 10% of the global population. In the UK alone, around 1 in 10 people experience kidney stones at some point in their lives. Despite it being treatable, millions of people every year die due to kidney diseases, including kidney stones, primarily because of unaffordable and limited access to quality kidney stone treatment. 

In many developed countries such as Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, treatments like kidney stone removal surgeries are prohibitively expensive. As a result, a growing number of patients are turning to medical tourism for more affordable options. But finding a destination that is both affordable and hosts the best quality treatment is not easy.

Kidney stone removal surgery in Turkey is one of the most preferred options for European patients. Cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya boast some of the most experienced kidney specialists and speciality centres in the world. On this page, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about kidney stone removal options in Turkey,  from available treatment options and associated costs to the benefits of choosing this country for your medical surgery.

What are the Indications for a Kidney Stone Removal Surgery? 

Kidney stones are a common condition that affects a major number of people worldwide each year. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment can effectively manage the condition and prevent serious complications. For this reason, knowing and understanding the indications for kidney stone removal surgery in Turkey is beneficial. Here are some common indications of kidney stone removal surgery:

• When the stone is larger than 7 mm and unlikely to pass spontaneously
• When adequate pain relief cannot be achieved with medication
• When the stone causes an obstruction accompanied by infection
• When there is a risk of urosepsis or pyonephrosis
• When a stone is obstructing a single-function kidney
• In cases of bilateral obstruction

What Are the Different Kidney Stone Removal Procedures in Turkey? 

There are a number of kidney stone removal procedures in Turkey. The choice of surgery depends on the size, location, and severity of the kidney stones. Here are the most common procedures:

■ Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy

This is the least invasive and one of the most popular procedures for removing kidney stones in Turkey. ESWL is recommended when the kidney stone is smaller than 2 cm. During this procedure, a nephrologist uses shock waves to break the kidney stones into smaller pieces, which can then pass naturally through the urinary tract.

■ Ureteroscopy Stone Removal

Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used for removing stones located in the ureter or kidney. Performed under general anaesthesia, in this procedure, the doctor inserts a ureteroscope through the urethra and bladder to reach the stone. A laser is then used to break the stone into fragments. 

■ Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

This method is used for removing larger kidney stones, greater than 2 cm in size. A surgeon makes a small incision in the back to access the kidney directly in this procedure. Using a nephroscope and other surgical instruments, the stones are broken up with ultrasound or laser and removed. This procedure is more invasive but highly effective for large or complex stones.

■ Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Kidney Stone Removal

For particularly large or difficult-to-remove stones, robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery is suggested. In this minimally invasive procedure, small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope and robotic instruments. The robotic system helps with precise stone removal with minimal damage to surrounding tissue, resulting in faster recovery times.

What is the Step-by-Step Procedure for Kidney Stones Surgery in Turkey? 

Different types of kidney stone removal surgeries are performed using specific techniques based on the size and location of the stones. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how each kidney surgery is performed:

■ Laser Lithotripsy :

This method is used for the removal of small stones, which are less than 2 cm in the ureter or kidney.

Step-by-step Procedure:

• The patient is placed under general anaesthesia.
• A ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the stone.
• A laser fibre is passed through the scope to break the stone into tiny fragments.
• The fragments are then either removed or allowed to pass naturally through urine.
• A temporary stent is placed for smooth urine flow during healing.

■ Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

This technique is ideal for treating large kidney stones, which are over 2 cm in size.

Step-by-step Procedure:

• The patient receives general anaesthesia.
• A small incision of 1–2 cm is made in the back to access the kidney directly.
• An optical system, such as a nephroscope, is inserted to locate the stone.
• Laser, pneumatic, or ultrasonic energy is used to break the stone into smaller pieces.
• Fragments are removed through the access tract.
• A nephrostomy tube is temporarily placed to drain urine during recovery.

■ Laparoscopic Kidney Stone Removal Surgery

A laparoscopic procedure for kidney stone removal is used for huge or complex stones when other techniques are not suitable.

Step-by-step Procedure:

• The patient is placed under general anaesthesia.
• Small incisions are made in the abdomen.
• The abdominal cavity is inflated with gas for better visibility.
• The surgeon inserts a laparoscope and other surgical instruments.
• The surgeon locates and removes the stone manually.
• The incisions are then closed, and recovery begins.

How is Recovery After a Kidney Stone Removal Surgery in Turkey? 

The recovery period after kidney stone surgery varies for every patient depending on the type of procedure performed and the patient’s health. Minimally invasive techniques such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy allows for full recovery within 1 week, while more invasive procedures like open or laparoscopic surgery require 2 to 3 weeks for complete recovery. Here are some recovery tips to help you recover from a kidney stone removal surgery: 

■ Immediate Post-Surgical Care:

• Get complete bed rest for the first 24–48 hours.
• Avoid any movements or activities that place strain on the abdomen or surgical area.
• Follow all discharge instructions provided by your surgeon.

■ Follow-Up Care & Protection:

• Sitting for long periods may be uncomfortable, especially after more invasive procedures so it is recommended to take short walks and change positions often.
• Gradually return to daily activities, but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous physical exercise until cleared by your doctor.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out any remaining stone fragments and prevent new stones from forming.
• Avoid doing strenuous activities and get medical help if pain escalates. 

What is the Cost of Kidney Stone Surgery in Turkey? 

Kidney stone removal surgery cost is a major factor anyone would consider while planning to get the surgery. In most Western countries, such as those in Europe, the UK, and the US, accessing quality kidney stone removal at a minimal price can be challenging. Therefore, a lot of people from these countries prefer to visit Turkey for cost-effective treatment. Turkey is known for providing the best quality kidney stone removal surgery in Turkey at reasonable prices. Below, we will discuss some essential price details of kidney stone surgery country-wise to help you choose:

As evident, the cost of kidney stone surgery in Turkey is reasonably lower than in most western countries, making it an ideal option for kidney stone operations.

Why Get Kidney Stones Surgery in Turkey? 

Turkey is a popular destination for kidney stone removal surgeries. Millions of people from different parts of the world, especially from countries like the UK, Spain, Germany, England and the USA visit Turkey for cost-effective and high-quality stone removal surgery. Here are some reasons why you should get your kidney stone surgery in Turkey:

• World-Class Infrastructure and Facilities: The medical hospitals in Turkey are equipped with advanced technology and adhere to international healthcare standards for providing treatments.
• Highly Skilled Urologists and Kidney Specialists: Surgeons in Turkey are well-trained, often with international experience and provide expert and result-orientated care for their patients.
• Cost-effective treatment: Turkey offers some of the most affordable kidney stone surgery options worldwide without compromising on quality.
• Excellent Travel Opportunities: Combining treatment with the chance to vacation in Turkey and explore the rich culture and beautiful landscapes makes the experience more rewarding.
• Expert Guidance: CureTurkey provides personalised support throughout your treatment, including assistance with travel, accommodation, and financing.