In 1986, Dr Ramón Serrate Aguilera founded a centre in the Sagrada Familia Clinic in Barcelona that was devoted to the treatment of urinary stones, it was named the Centro Internacional de Lithotricia (CILSA).
Since its establishment, which included the first private lithotripter in Catalonia: the famous Munich bathtub (Dornier HM3 Lithotriptor), our unit has been a pioneer in the comprehensive treatment of lithiasis.
Since its inception, the centre has been renowned for providing patients with personalised care from highly qualified professionals. And with the acquisition of state-of-the-art lithotripters, new ureteroscopes, fibre laser and the opportunity to use minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgical treatments, the centre currently provides a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of renal lithiasis, including diagnosis and surgical medical treatment.
Our Lithiasis Unit has treated approximately 30,000 patients since 1986, including:
26.500
LITHOTRIPSIES
4.050
URETEROSCOPIES
150
PCNs (Percutaneous surgery)
250
SURGERIES / LAPAROSCOPIES
Lithiasis
The term "lithiasis" refers to the presence of stones that can originate anywhere in the urinary tract. They are solid masses which vary in size and are formed from the crystallisation of substances excreted in the urine. Depending on where a stone forms, it can be called a kidney, ureteral or bladder stone.
Renal Colic
Nephritic colic is an intense pain that occurs abruptly and unexpectedly. It starts in the lumbar area and radiates to the upper groin and the genitals. This pain may be caused by the presence of stones in the urinary tract. Nausea with or without vomiting, a swollen abdomen or difficulty passing urine are common symptoms. Fortunately, this problem will resolve spontaneously in three out of four patients due to the stone being excreted, so only one in four will require surgery or specific treatment.



