Urolithiasis

the long version

Urolithiasis, or stone disease occurs in 7% of women and 12% of men at some point, and these statistics are rising. Furthermore, for those who form a stone, the likelihood of a recurrence is nearly 50% within 5 years of initial diagnosis. Therefore, the need for effective, minimally invasive alternatives for stone eradication and prevention is critical. Because stone disease comprises a large part of any urologist's practice, a thorough knowledge of the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of stone disease is critical in order to understand and implement treatment strategies to prevent stone forma.