the procedure is termed extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL).
Lithotripsy is the use of high-energy shock waves to fragment and disintegrate kidney stones.
Prior to the lithotripsy procedure, a complete physical examination is performed, followed by tests
Lithotripsy
lithotripsyLithotripsyLiThOtRiPsYextracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL)Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) means destruction of a kidney stone or gallstone by ultrasonic waves traveling through water.lithotripsy
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy
The recovery time for ultrasonic lithotripsy surgery will vary with each person. On average, the recovery time is less than 4 weeks.
lithotripsy
In some patients a 4mm kidney stone may not need lithotripsy, however, for some patients this may be too large to pass without assistance.
How soon after lithotrypsy can a person have it again
Some patients may have a stent placed prior to the lithotripsy procedure. A stent is a plastic tube placed in the ureter which allows the passage of gravel and urine after the ESWL procedure is completed.
Lithotripsy uses the technique of focused shock waves to fragment a stone in the kidney or the ureter. The patient is placed in a tub of water or in contact with a water-filled cushion, and a shock wave is created which is focused on the stone.