ESWL (Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy)

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is the use of low-frequency, high-energy shock waves, externally sent through the skin to target kidney stones – causing the stones to break down into fragments until they become “stone dust”, small enough to pass through urination.

ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that allows patients a very short stay at the hospital and a quick recovery.

LIMITATIONS OF ESWL

Although ESWL is a widely popular and effective treatment method, not all types of urinary tract stones can be treated using this method.
Limitations are as follows:
Stones which are too large (kidney stones larger than 2 centimeters / ureteral stones larger than 1-1.5 centimeters)
Patients with bacterial infection and inflammation of the urinary tract (which needs to be cured prior to the procedure in order to avoid worsening the infection)
Patients with bleeding disorders
Patients with a urinary tract obstruction (must first be corrected)
Patients who are overweight, obese, or pregnant

COMPLICATIONS OF ESWL

Complications of ESWL are usually relatively mild; patients may experience the following symptoms:
Blood is mixed in with urine causing a reddish color, but will gradually fade after urinating 2-3 times.
There may be an increase of inflammation in patients with a pre-existing infection, but can be treated with antibiotics.
There may be some abdominal pain in cases where stone fragments migrate and cause blockage in the urethra – which will pass normally as well.
Nearby organs such as the intestines, arteries, and veins, may sustain some minor injuries.

POST ESWL

Drink plenty of water in order for stone fragments to pass during urination.
Take medications according to doctor’s orders.
Go for periodic follow-up visits, staring within 1-2 weeks after the procedure, to ensure that all the stones have passed completely, and to prevent recurrence.

Treatments and Technologies