Kidney stones can be as small as a tiny pebble or an inch or more in diameter.
Signs and Symptoms Kidney stones can be present for many years without causing symptoms. X-rays to determine the location and type of stone present. If the stone is small and can be passed, treatment consists of drinking plenty of fluids. For kidney stones too large to be passed, a procedure known as lithotripsy is used in most cases. Lithotripsy causes little or no pain and costs less than invasive surgery.