Question:
How common is a kidney stone after WLS?

I just got home from 3 days in the hospital to pass a kidney stone, I was 4 1/2 weeks post-op. My question, and concern, is how common is this and will I be facing a likelihood of more? It was absolutely the worst pain, and frankly, I had this WLS to AVOID health problems, not create a new one. If I sound flippant, I apologize, I am just really scared cuz it was awful and I don't ever want to go through that again!!!!!!!!! Also, prevention - I am told to drink, drink, drink. I am trying but it is really difficult to get in the amount of water they say we need when you can only take in sips at a time. It hurts to take a big drink. Are there other preventative measures? Also, on another post someone said their surgeon says WLS patients are "cured" from forming stones because they don't absorb calcium as well anymore, anyone know if there is any truth to that. Seems to me the one I just passed disproves that. Any info is appreciated! LOL, Lori B.    — Lori B. (posted on May 19, 2000)

May 19, 2000
I got a kideney stone 3+ yrs postop. I had warning signs, though. Although we do malabosbr calcium from food, we can absorb it in supplement form and we need to take it to avoid osteoporosis. And my calcium levels were always excellent. Too excellent, apparently. 3 months before my stone, I was told to stop dirnking iced tea and diet pop. The acids tend to form crystals. I stopped iced tea cold turkey, but didn't replace it with water. Smart, huh? I got my stone for Christmas. So, when they say, drink, drink, drink, that is an UNDERSTATEMENT. I think once we've gotten one, were more likely to form others. So, I put my water in a pretty glass, keep a coaster by the computer and drink WATER. You WILL be able to drink more as you go!
   — vitalady

May 19, 2000
Hi Lori: I had exactly the same experience that you had! At 4 1/2 weeks post-op, I was back in the hospital (on my wedding anniversary!) with a kidney stone that had to be removed surgically. What a pain in the back! My surgeon and urologist both were skeptical that the stone was a result of the wls, and I questioned whether the decrease in fluid intake could have contributed to the problem (inquiring minds want to know!). The response from both of them was 'maybe', and we'll never know. It's tough to get in the amount of fluids they recommend, but you have to do it. Sip constantly, it's the only way at your stage of the game. Try and get in some cranberry juice, too. If it's any consulation, I'm almost 10 months post-op now, and haven't had any more problems. Good luck with your recovery. Jaye Carl, RN, open proximal RNY (divided) 7-29-99, 105 pounds gone forever!
   — Jaye C.