Kidney stones are a common health problem that can cause significant pain, urinary disturbances, and even infection if left untreated. Proper evaluation is the first step to determining the most suitable treatment method for each patient. At Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, kidney stone diagnosis begins with a consultation, laboratory tests, and imaging examinations such as ultrasound (USG) and CT-scan. Ultrasound serves as an initial screening tool, while CT-scan provides accurate information on the size, location, and number of stones.
According to Prof. dr. Ponco Birowo, Sp.U.(K), Ph.D, a kidney stone specialist at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, the choice of treatment depends on the severity, stone size, and patient condition. Today, treatment options have evolved significantly—many no longer require major surgery as in the past. Several minimally invasive and even incision-free techniques are available, offering faster and more comfortable recovery for patients.
Below are the types of kidney stone treatments available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, as explained by Prof. Ponco.
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Types of Kidney Stone Treatments According to Prof. Ponco

1. Observation and Medical Therapy
Not all kidney stones require surgery. If the stones are small, they may pass naturally through the urinary tract. In such cases, patients are advised to increase fluid intake and may receive medications to help accelerate stone passage, relieve pain, and prevent infection.
2. ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy)
ESWL is a non-invasive method that uses shock waves from outside the body to break kidney stones into smaller fragments. These fragments will then pass naturally through urine. This procedure is comfortable, requires no incisions, and is suitable for small to medium-sized stones.
3. RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery)
RIRS is a scarless endourological technique. Doctors use a flexible endoscope inserted through the urinary tract up to the kidney to break stones using a laser. This method is ideal for stones located in difficult-to-reach areas or those that cannot be treated with ESWL.
Patient Experience: 1 cm Kidney Stone Treated with RIRS Laser Procedure
4. PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy)
PCNL is a minimally invasive procedure performed by making a small incision in the skin to access the kidney and remove large stones. It is far less invasive than open surgery but highly effective for complex or large stones.
5. Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is an option when a broader surgical approach is needed while still avoiding open surgery. With several small incisions, doctors can remove stones or repair urinary tract structures with lower risk and faster recovery.
With advancements in urological technology at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, kidney stone patients now have more treatment options that are less painful and offer quicker recovery. Selecting the most appropriate method is essential to ensure optimal results and prevent recurrence. If you experience symptoms of kidney stones, early evaluation and consultation with a urologist are the best steps toward determining the right treatment.
Kidney Stone Treatment Without Surgery Using Robotic Technology at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri continues to bring significant innovations in urology with the introduction of the Zamenix robotic laser system for kidney stones. This advanced robotic technology is designed to break kidney stones without open surgery, offering a safer treatment option with minimal risks. With this innovation, Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri becomes the first private hospital in Southeast Asia to use a high-precision robot specifically designed for minimally invasive, incision-free kidney stone treatment.
Zamenix combines robotic precision with high-powered thulium laser technology. Through an ultra-thin 2.8 mm endoscope, the robot enters the urinary tract up to the kidney to break stones without creating surgical incisions.
The procedure is supported by a robotic navigation system that allows doctors to control the camera, laser, and stone grasper with exceptional stability and precision. This ensures optimal stone fragmentation and removal while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Unlike ESWL (shock wave therapy), which often leaves residual fragments, this robotic system offers more complete stone clearance—even for large stones or those in hard-to-reach locations.
The technology is also equipped with a respiratory synchronization feature, allowing the system to adjust its movement according to the patient’s breathing pattern, resulting in a more stable and safer procedure.
Prof. Ponco’s Schedule at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri

Prof. dr. Ponco Birowo, Sp.U.(K), Ph.D is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:
- Tuesday: 16:00 – 18:00 WIB
- Thursday: 16:00 – 18:00 WIB
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