Renal colic and recurrent urinary calculi. Management and prevention

Urinary calculi are a relatively common problem and up to 80% of patients with calculi who are untreated will experience one or more recurrences within five years.

This paper outlines the causes of urinary calculi and presents evidence for the less conventional treatment of renal colic with NSAIDs such as intramuscular diclofenac in preference to traditional pethidine injections. The paper also deals with ways to prevent recurrence of stone formation.

Effective treatment requires a clear understanding of the cause, and investigations need to be directed toward establishing this. Prevention is the cornerstone of management and requires patients to have a clear understanding of the problem. Follow up of these patients is essential.