A Review on the Surgical Intervention for Mutrashmari as Described by Sushruta.

Abstract

The Mutravaha Samsthana (urinary system) is responsible for the formation and excretion of Mutra (urine). Any vitiation of the Mutravaha Strotas leads to disorders such as Mutrakrichra, Mutraghata, and Mutrashmari. Among these, Mutrashmari is one of the most common and distressing urinary ailments. Acharya Sushruta, the pioneer of surgical science, has described Mutrashmari in great detail, including its classification, clinical features, etiology, pathogenesis, complications, and management. This reflects the profound understanding of urinary disorders possessed by the ancient Acharyas. Ashmari is listed among the Ashta Mahagadas (eight grave diseases), indicating the need for prompt and meticulous management. When detected early and when the stone is small and of recent origin, it can be managed effectively with medicinal therapy. However, long-standing and large calculi are difficult to cure conservatively and usually require surgical intervention (Shalya Chikitsa).