Bladder Stones

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for bladder stones. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes. 

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies. 

When you need bladder stones care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan. 

Montefiore Einstein offers the following content from Healthwise’s health information library.

What Are Bladder Stones?

Bladder stones are hard masses of minerals in the bladder which develop when the minerals in concentrated urine crystallize. Small bladder stones may pass without treatment, but in some cases, bladder stones require medication or surgery. If left untreated, bladder stones can lead to infections and other complications.

Causes of Bladder Stones

Bladder stones develop when the bladder doesn’t completely empty and urine becomes concentrated, causing it to crystallize and form stones. Causes of bladder stones include:

  • Bladder catheters
  • Enlarged prostate, which can obstruct the flow of urine and prevent the bladder from emptying completely
  • Foreign objects that accidentally migrate to your bladder, including contraceptive devices or urinary stents
  • Inflammation, sometimes caused by urinary tract infections (UTIs) or pelvic radiation therapy
  • Kidney stones
  • Nerve damage from stroke, spinal cord injury or other conditions

Signs & Symptoms of Bladder Stones

Patients with bladder stones may not experience any symptoms. In cases where the stones irritate the bladder or block the flow of urine, symptoms include:

  • Blood in the urine
  • Cloudy or unusually dark urine
  • Difficulty urinating 
  • Frequent urination
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Pain during urination

Diagnosing Bladder Stones

Bladder stones are diagnosed with a complete physical exam and a review of the patient’s medical history. Additional tests to confirm the diagnosis include:

  • Cystoscopy
  • Diagnostic imaging tests, including computed tomography (CT) scans, X-rays and/or ultrasound to capture detailed pictures of the bladder.
  • Urinalysis 

Treating Bladder Stones

Treatment for bladder stones includes:

  • Cystolitholapaxy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure to break the stone(s) into smaller pieces
  • Surgery to remove the bladder stone(s)