Thumbay Hospital Fujairah has reported the successful treatment of a complex 4-cm staghorn kidney stone in a 46-year-old patient using extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), a non-invasive technique that uses focused shock waves to break stones into smaller fragments.
The procedure was led by Dr Shahid Ali, Specialist Urologist. According to the hospital, pre-procedure imaging and an individualised treatment plan enabled the team to use targeted shock wave therapy without surgical incisions.
Staghorn calculi are large kidney stones that occupy the renal pelvis and extend into the renal calyces. Their size and branching structure can make treatment challenging, often requiring specialised urological intervention. ESWL uses focused shock waves to fragment stones, allowing smaller pieces to pass through the urinary tract. Its suitability depends on factors such as stone size, location and composition, as well as the patient’s clinical condition.
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Dr. Shahid Ali said, “Managing a 4–cm staghorn stone through non-invasive techniques requires precise acoustic targeting and individualized treatment protocols. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy delivers focused shock waves to break stones into smaller fragments that may pass naturally. This approach may help reduce procedural risks and support recovery while prioritizing patient safety and comfort while prioritizing patient safety and comfort.”
Mr. Akbar Moideen Thumbay, Vice President of the Healthcare Division at Thumbay Group, said, “Delivering high-quality, specialized medical care close to home remains central to our vision across Thumbay Healthcare. The successful management of complex cases such as this at Thumbay Hospital Fujairah reflects the expertise of our urology team and our commitment to adopting advanced therapeutic technologies. We remain focused on expanding our specialized services while maintaining patient safety, comfort, and clinical excellence at the core of our operations.”
The hospital’s urology department provides care for kidney and ureteric stones, prostate conditions, laser lithotripsy, stent procedures and other urological disorders.
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