What is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy used for?
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) uses shock waves to break a kidney stone into small pieces that can more easily travel through the urinary tract and pass from the body. See a picture of ESWL.
Is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy painful?
However, ESWL is still generally considered to be a painful procedure. This could be caused by shockwaves reaching superficial (skin and muscle) and deeper structures (ribs, nerves and the kidney capsule) [3,4].
Who invented lithotripsy?
Electrohydraulic lithotripsy was the first modern intracorporeal lithotriptor invented in 1954 by Yutkin, an engineer from Kiev [35].
Does ESWL require a stent?
Not all patients who undergo ESWL will require a ureteral stent. Based upon stone size, location, or presence of any abnormalities in the drainage system of the kidney, placement of a ureteral stent may be required to aid in passive dilation of the ureter to help facilitate passage of stone fragments following ESWL.
What to expect from lithotripsy?
Lithotripsy usually takes place under general anesthesia, which means a person will be asleep and will not feel any pain. Typically, people will need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before receiving anesthesia.
What should I do after lithotripsy?
In some cases, you may be hospitalized overnight. Plan to spend one to two days resting at home after the procedure. It’s also a good idea to drink plenty of water for several weeks after lithotripsy. This will help your kidneys flush out any remaining stone fragments.
How is ESWL procedure performed?
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) uses sound waves or shock waves to break stones into small fragments that can pass spontaneously. It is performed usually as an outpatient procedure whilst awake or sometimes with sedation.
How does Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy work?
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is a technique for treating stones in the kidney and ureter that does not require surgery. Instead, high energy shock waves are passed through the body and used to break stones into pieces as small as grains of sand.