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May 3, 2001

Kidney stone clinic established

More than one million Americans will be diagnosed with a kidney stone this year, and 50 percent of these patients will develop a second kidney stone within 10 years. UPMC Health System has established the UPMC Kidney Stone Center to help patients prevent recurrence through medical and lifestyle adjustments.

The centralized, multi-disciplinary center was organized to treat and manage kidney stone disease over the long-term.

"Kidney stones are one of the most, if not the most, painful disorders a person can experience," said Timothy D. Averch, director of endourology, UPMC Health System and assistant professor, Department of Urology, School of Medicine. "To go through it once is more than enough. Our patients shouldn't have to go through it again. This is why we are focusing on prevention of kidney stones on a patient-by-patient basis, finding what treatment will work best for the individual."

Oriented toward patients who have had stone surgery or who have passed a stone spontaneously, the center evaluates patients for their risk factors in stone formation. After evaluating a patient's risk factors, the team of doctors at the center devise a treatment plan for the patient, and monitor the patient through follow-up exams.

Members of the UPMC Kidney Stone Center team include: Averch, a urologist with fellowship training in the management of kidney stone disease, Donald S. Fraley, a nephrologist, and Beth Buenaventura, a nutrition specialist.

Patients are seen at the center on the first Monday of every month in Suite 801, Lilliane S. Kaufmann Building, 3471 Fifth Ave.

Appointments can be made by calling 692-4100.


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