A lithotomy is a surgical procedure used to remove stones, or calculi, from various parts of the body, most commonly from the urinary tract, such as the bladder, kidneys, or ureters. Stones can develop due to the accumulation of minerals, often resulting from dehydration, infection, or certain metabolic conditions. When these stones grow large or cause severe pain, urinary obstruction, or infection, a lithotomy may be required to remove them. The procedure is performed under general or regional anesthesia, and depending on the location of the stone, an incision is made to access and extract it. The most common cause for a lithotomy is the presence of large kidney or bladder stones that cannot be passed naturally or treated with less invasive methods like lithotripsy, which uses shock waves to break up stones. Lithotomy may also be performed when stones are causing severe urinary complications, such as recurrent infections or kidney damage. While lithotomy is generally effective, it comes with potential complications. These include infection, bleeding, and injury to surrounding organs like the bladder, ureters, or kidneys. Post-operative complications may also involve urinary leakage, scarring, or the formation of fistulas, which are abnormal connections between organs. Additionally, there is a risk of stone recurrence, meaning further interventions may be necessary. Despite these risks, lithotomy provides relief from painful symptoms and helps prevent long-term damage to the urinary system. Recovery depends on the extent of the surgery, and follow-up care is crucial to monitor for complications and prevent stone recurrence.
