Kidney stone removal in the United States typically has a billed cost of about $10,000 to $40,000, depending on the procedure. Ureteroscopy and shock wave lithotripsy fall at the lower end, while percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for large stones is the most expensive. Medicare and most private insurance cover medically necessary stone removal, so out-of-pocket costs are usually far lower, often a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Emergency treatment for a blocked or infected stone can cost more.
| Cost item | Typical 2026 US range | Insurance coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Ureteroscopy with laser (billed) | $10,000 to $20,000 | Covered by Medicare and most plans when medically necessary |
| Shock wave lithotripsy / ESWL (billed) | $10,000 to $25,000 | Covered when medically necessary |
| Percutaneous nephrolithotomy / PCNL (billed) | $20,000 to $40,000 or more | Covered; larger procedure and hospital stay raise cost |
| Medicare beneficiary out-of-pocket | A few hundred to a few thousand dollars | Part B 20% coinsurance after deductible; Medigap covers most or all |
| Private insurance out-of-pocket | Up to the plan’s annual out-of-pocket maximum | Depends on deductible, coinsurance, and network |
| Uninsured cash-pay | Negotiable; hospital financial assistance available | Not covered; self-pay discounts often apply |
Kidney Stone Removal Cost by Procedure
Ureteroscopy
A scope passes through the urinary tract to break and remove the stone, often with a temporary stent. It is common for mid-sized stones and generally falls at the lower end of the cost range.
Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
Sound waves break the stone from outside the body, and the fragments pass in the urine. It is non-invasive and often outpatient, with cost similar to ureteroscopy.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Used for large or complex stones through a small back incision, usually with a short hospital stay. It is the most involved and most expensive option.
Medicare and Private Insurance
Medicare and virtually all commercial plans cover medically necessary kidney stone removal. What you pay depends on your deductible, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum. Medicare beneficiaries with a Medigap plan often pay very little. Ask your insurer for an estimate using the specific procedure codes your urologist plans to bill.
If You Do Not Have Insurance
- Ambulatory surgical centers may offer lower bundled cash-pay rates for straightforward cases.
- Nonprofit hospitals must offer financial assistance under income thresholds.
- Emergency treatment for a blocked, infected stone cannot be refused for inability to pay.
- Payment plans are commonly available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does kidney stone removal cost in the US?
Billed costs typically range from about $10,000 to $40,000 depending on the procedure. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs are usually a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Does insurance cover kidney stone removal?
Yes. Medicare and most private plans cover medically necessary stone removal. Cost-sharing depends on your specific plan.
Which procedure is most expensive?
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), used for large stones, is generally the most expensive because it is a larger procedure with a hospital stay.
What if the stone is an emergency?
A blocked, infected stone is a medical emergency and is treated regardless of ability to pay. Financial assistance can reduce the bill afterward.
Related Reading on Know Your Surgery
- Kidney Stone Removal: Overview, Types, and What to Expect
- Kidney Stone Removal: Procedure, Recovery, and Rehabilitation
- Kidney Stone Removal: FAQs, Statistics, and Patient Stories
See how this compares with other procedures in our US Surgery Cost Index.
Sources
- Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Coverage of medically necessary urologic procedures. https://www.medicare.gov/
- Urology Care Foundation (American Urological Association). Kidney stones treatment. https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/k/kidney-stones
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), NIH. Kidney stones. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/kidney-stones
- US No Surprises Act. Patient rights to good-faith estimates. https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for general education and reflects typical 2026 US ranges, which vary by procedure, facility, insurer, and region. Verify costs with your urologist and insurance plan. This article is not medical or financial advice.
