World’s largest kidney stone removed – and it’s the size of a grapefruit

The world’s largest kidney stone has been removed from a patient in Sri Lanka – and it’s about the size of a grapefuit, as long as a banana and as heavy as four hamsters.

At 13.372 centimeters (5.26 inches) long and weighing 801 grams (1.76 lbs) the kidney stone broke two world records when it was removed by Sri Lankan Army doctors on June 1.

Previously the records were 13 centimeters for length, set in India in 2004, and 620 grams for weight, set in Pakistan in 2008, according to Guinness World Records.

Guinness World Records has confirmed that both records have been broken by the Sri Lankan stone, removed at the Colombo Army Hospital.

Kidney stones consist of solid pieces of material that crystallize in the kidney, ureters or bladder due to genetic and environmental factors.

They are relatively common, affecting around 10% of people at some point in their lives, and some studies suggest they may be becoming even more common.

Most types can be prevented by staying hydrated and reducing sodium intake. According to the Mayo Clinic, drinking as much as 2 to 3 quarts (1.89 to 2.8 liters) of water per day can help remove small stones – less than 3 millimeters (0.11 inches) in diameter – by flushing out the urinary system.

However, the process is notoriously painful.