Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)

With the advent of technology, the treatment of kidney stones has become a daycare procedure wherein with the use of Laser/ Shock waves, the kidney stone is broken into tiny pieces. The procedure is called Lithotripsy or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a procedure which essentially involves the use of X-rays or ultrasound to locate the position of the kidney stone. The machine generates shock waves energy which is focused on the stone.

Shock waves breaks the stone into smaller pieces so that it can be passed in the urine. Shock waves are target driven and the energy will be focused on the stone without affecting surrounding structures. 

The main advantage of doing this procedure is that it is done as a day care procedure.

ESWL is very useful for breaking up small stones in the kidney.

It can also be used to treat residual stones after endoscopy or PCNL procedures.

The patient might face some discomfort after the procedure as the broken up pieces of kidney stone passes through urine. Haematuria or blood in urine is common after the procedure and will stop after a couple of hours. The main advantage of doing this procedure is that hospital stay is not required and the patient can go home after the procedure is completed. This saves time and also cost for the patient.

Dr Anandan is a very well experienced Urologist who specialises in Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy. Book an appointment for the best available treatment for kidney stones.