Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health Enhances Minimally Invasive Kidney Stone Care with Smaller Ureteroscopes and Laser Treatment
Right-sized scopes means right-sized care for the smallest patients at K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Given the significant rise in pediatric kidney stone occurrence in recent decades, Pediatric Urology at K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center is dedicated to investing in innovative technology to address the unique challenges that come with kidney stones in pediatric patients.
The team recently invested in flexible ureteroscopes in three smaller sizes to better young patients’ anatomy and address kidney stones with laser technology without the need for incisions. The smaller scopes allow more patients to receive nonsurgical laser lithotripsy entering via the urethra, rather than using scopes sized for adults. The team also ensures a wide range of stents and catheters are available to readily address complex case needs.
Several attending urologists recently joined the team to meet growing demand.
“This year, we’re on track to do over 700 cases, and that’s up from last year, when it was 539 cases,” said Thomas Vates, M.D., chief of Pediatric Urology at K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital. “We really went from a smaller program to a more vibrant offering.”
When surgery is the necessary option, urologists have access to the center’s robotic surgery technology and experienced urological surgeons on staff.
While the etiology for the upward trend in kidney stones in pediatric patients is inconclusive, close collaboration with Pediatric Nephrology, including a full-time pediatric nephrologist on site, facilitates metabolic review for any dietary or medication modifications that may address underlying issues and prevent future kidney stones. Proactively preventing secondary stones can help reduce emergency department visits and hospitalizations related to this growing issue.
Learn more about our innovations in pediatric urological care.
