ESWL
Procedure Overview
ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) is a completely non-invasive treatment that uses focused shock waves, delivered from outside the body, to fragment kidney stones into small pieces that can pass naturally in the urine.
Who Needs It
ESWL is best suited to small-to-moderate kidney stones in a favorable location. It's generally not recommended for very hard stones, very large stones, or certain anatomical situations, which your surgeon will assess with imaging.
Preparation
Preparation involves confirming stone size and location on recent imaging, reviewing blood-thinning medication, and a short period of fasting if sedation is planned.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Positioning
The patient is positioned so the shock wave source is aligned with the stone, guided by X-ray or ultrasound.
10 minShock Wave Delivery
Focused shock waves are delivered through the skin to fragment the stone.
30–45 minMonitoring
Fragmentation is monitored with imaging during the session.
ThroughoutRecovery Observation
A short observation period follows before discharge the same day.
30 minBenefits
- ✓Completely non-invasive — no incision or scope
- ✓Usually needs only mild sedation, not general anesthesia
- ✓Outpatient, same-day procedure
- ✓No hospital stay required
Recovery Timeline
Most patients go home the same day and resume normal activity within a day or two. Drinking extra fluids over the following days to weeks helps flush out stone fragments.
Technology Used
Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripter
Cost & Insurance
- • Number of sessions required
- • Stone size and density
Related Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
A kidney stone (renal calculus) is a hard mineral deposit that forms in the kidney from concentrated urine. Stones vary in size and type, and small ones may cause no symptoms at all. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Bladder stones form directly in the bladder, usually because it isn't emptying fully, unlike kidney stones which form in the kidney. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Classic stone pain starts suddenly in the flank or back and radiates to the groin, often in waves, with nausea and sometimes blood in the urine. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Stones form when urine is too concentrated with calcium, oxalate, or uric acid. Low water intake, salty or high-protein diets, obesity, and family history all raise the risk. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Diagnosis uses a urine test, blood test, ultrasound, and usually a CT KUB scan, the most accurate way to see stone size and location. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?