Dear Dr. Roach: About a year ago, a test revealed that I had an 8-mm stone in my kidney. My kidney doctor was not worried about it. I have had no infections or symptoms, and I have normal kidney function. My general doctor recommended a urologist.

All three doctors thought that it was 50-50 whether it would just stay there forever and that there was really no issue waiting for it to dislodge. But if it did try and pass, it would take surgery. Now less than a year later, over the phone, my urologist is telling me at 74 years old that I should immediately get the surgery; otherwise they will have to put in a temporary stent and have to replace it every three months for as long as I live.

I am going to get a second opinion. My real issue is being 74 years old. I am in very good health. I e

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