Ayurvedic Surgical Perspectives in the Management of Bladder Calculus: A Case Report

Abstract

Bladder calculus, known as Ashmari in Ayurveda, is a significant urological disorder that has been described extensively in ancient texts. Acharya Sushruta, the pioneer of Ayurvedic surgery, detailed the pathophysiology, classification, and treatment of Ashmari, emphasizing the use of Sastra Karma (surgical methods) for its management. The aim of the study is to discuss the Ayurvedic principles of bladder stone treatment and their integration with modern surgical procedures, specifically suprapubic cyst lithotomy. In this case report, a 60 years old male patient came to Shalya Tantra OPD with complaints of pain at lower abdomen associated with burning micturition, straining during urination, dribbling and urgency for last one year. On general examination tenderness in the suprapubic region. The abdomen distention (on/off) due to urinary retention. On local examination tenderness was present in the suprapubic region, which exacerbated by palpation or percussion. The patient had difficulty in initiating or maintaining urination. USG Abdomen, was suggestive of urinary bladder calculus with changes of chronic cystitis. So this urinary bladder calculus was treated with Suprapubic cystolithotomy under Spinal anesthesia. Post-operative care using herbal formulations such as Gokshuradi Guggulu (1 gm TDS) play a crucial role in ensuring proper recovery and minimizing recurrence. The study highlights the potential of integrating Ayurvedic principles with modern surgical advancements to enhance patient outcomes. Further research and clinical trials are recommended to validate the effectiveness of Ayurvedic interventions in post-surgical care and stone recurrence prevention.