Both flexible mirror lithotripsy and percutaneous nephrolithotripsy are commonly used surgical methods for urinary stones, no better or worse, with their own indications and contraindications, the specific choice should depend on the situation.
1. Ureteral lithotripsy: it is suitable for <2cm kidney stones, generally using 200µm fiber optic to introduce magnetic laser, crushing the stone into a small stone that can be easily discharged, and the larger stones can be taken out with a stone basket.
2. Percutaneous nephrolithotripsy: It is suitable for all renal stones requiring surgical intervention, including complete and incomplete staghorn stones, ≥2cm renal stones, symptomatic renal calyces or diverticular crypts, and stones that are difficult to be crushed by extracorporeal shockwave, or those that fail to be crushed by extracorporeal shockwave.
It should be noted that percutaneous nephrolithotripsy is contraindicated for those with impaired coagulation mechanism, too obese for the puncture needle to reach the kidney, or spinal deformity.
To summarize, the surgical method of kidney stones should be based on the size and nature of the stones, the patient's basic situation of a comprehensive decision, it is recommended that the patient go to the hospital, improve the relevant tests and examinations, under the guidance of the doctor's treatment.