A kidney stone is not just a medical issue; it is a painful and disruptive condition that can significantly affect daily life.

For many patients in Bangladesh, treatment options may include medication, shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL), or pneumatic lithotripsy. While these approaches can be effective, some patients may experience residual stone fragments or recurrence, particularly with larger or harder stones.

This is one reason why many patients from Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet travel to India for Laser Ureteroscopy (URS) or RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery).

Patients are not only seeking affordability—they are often looking for access to advanced laser platforms and experienced high-volume urology centers.

At Karetrip, we assist patients with cross-border coordination. Here is a balanced 2026 overview of why India is commonly chosen for advanced stone removal.

1. The Technology Gap: “Dusting” the Stone

The success of a URS procedure depends on multiple factors, including stone size, location, composition, and the technology used.

• The Local Challenge: Some smaller facilities may use pneumatic lithotripsy, which breaks the stone into fragments that are removed or passed naturally. In certain cases, small fragments may remain.
• The Indian Advantage: Many tertiary urology centers in Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore use high-powered Holmium:YAG lasers and, in some cases, Thulium fiber lasers.
• The Result: These laser systems can fragment stones into very fine particles (“dusting”), which may improve clearance rates in selected patients. However, no procedure can guarantee zero recurrence, as stone formation depends on metabolic factors, hydration, and diet.

Choice of technology is determined by the treating urologist based on clinical assessment.

2. Minimally Invasive Daycare Surgery

Ureteroscopy is considered a minimally invasive procedure.

• No External Incisions: The ureteroscope (a thin endoscopic camera) is passed through the natural urinary tract to reach the stone.
• Short Hospital Stay: In many uncomplicated cases, patients may be discharged the same day or within 24 hours, depending on stability.
• Travel Readiness: Some patients may be medically cleared to travel within 48–72 hours after the procedure, provided there are no complications and after surgeon approval.

A temporary DJ stent is often placed and may cause mild urinary discomfort until removal. Stent removal timing varies by case.

3. Cost-Effectiveness: Quality Meets Affordability

Despite using advanced laser systems, URS and RIRS procedures in India are often comparatively affordable due to high surgical volume and structured hospital packages.

Estimated 2026 Cost Ranges:

• Laser URS in Kolkata: ₹60,000 – ₹85,000 (Approx. 80,000 – 1,15,000 BDT).
• RIRS (for larger kidney stones): ₹1,10,000 – ₹1,50,000 (Approx. 1,48,000 – 2,02,000 BDT).

Final cost depends on:

• Stone size and location
• Need for flexible scopes
• Use of disposable instruments
• ICU requirement (if any)
• Complications

Exchange rates fluctuate, and final billing depends on hospital policy.

4. Navigating the IVAC Medical Visa Process

For Bangladeshi citizens, the main logistical barrier is often visa documentation.

Bangladeshi patients typically must apply for a Regular (Paper) Medical Visa through the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC).

The e-Medical Visa system is generally not available.

Standard Requirements:

• A hospital-issued Visa Invitation Letter
• Passport and application documentation
• Supporting residential documents

How Karetrip Assists:

• Visa Invitation Letter Coordination: After reviewing your ultrasound or CT scan, we coordinate with hospitals to generate a formal Visa Invitation Letter, subject to hospital approval.
• Urgent Cases: If there is acute obstruction, infection, or severe pain, hospitals may issue urgent medical documentation. Expedited visa approval depends solely on the Indian High Commission and is not guaranteed.
• Ground Logistics: Pickup from Petrapole border or Kolkata airport and accommodation booking can be arranged upon request.

Visa approval remains under the authority of immigration officials.

Conclusion: Choosing Advanced Stone Management

Kidney stone disease can recur, but appropriate treatment and preventive care can reduce risk.

By choosing laser URS or RIRS at an experienced center, patients may benefit from advanced fragmentation techniques and minimally invasive care. However, long-term prevention requires:

• Adequate hydration
• Metabolic evaluation
• Dietary modification
• Regular follow-up

No surgical method guarantees a permanent cure without lifestyle management.

Ready to explore your treatment options?

Chat with our AI agent, Rua. Securely upload your KUB ultrasound or CT scan. We will coordinate a specialist review with urologists in Kolkata or Chennai and assist in obtaining a hospital-issued cost estimate and Visa Invitation Letter.

Medical Disclaimer The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only. Laser URS and RIRS are medical procedures with inherent risks, including infection, bleeding, ureteric injury, and need for repeat intervention. The surgical approach and cost depend on stone size, density, and anatomical factors. Prices mentioned are 2026 estimates and subject to currency fluctuations and hospital policy. Karetrip facilitates coordination and documentation but does not provide medical advice or guarantee clinical outcomes.