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Kidney stones are hard stones that can form within the collecting system of the kidney (calyces and renal pelvis). They may remain within the kidney indefinitely or pass into the ureter (tube connecting the kidney to the bladder). Usually, it is when the stones pass into the ureter that they cause pain due to obstruction. The stones may pass from the ureter into the bladder where they are usually passed in the urine.
Kidney stones are common in Australia. The lifetime risk of developing a kidney stone is up to 10%. The risk is lower in females.