If small enough, the stones may be removed via a transurethral route using specialized instruments.
If the stones are too big, it may be necessary to make a suprapubic incision and enter the bladder retroperitoneally to remove them.
In the clinic
In certain instances it is necessary to catheterize the bladder through the anterior abdominal wall. For example, when the prostate is markedly enlarged and it is impossible to pass a urethral catheter, a suprapubic catheter may be placed.