What is lithotripsy?

Lithotripsy is a medical procedure that uses shock waves or other energy to break up stones, usually kidney stones, into smaller pieces so they can pass out of the body more easily.

Lithotripsy is most commonly used for kidney stones and sometimes for stones in the ureter, depending on their size, location, and composition.

It works by directing focused energy at the stone to fragment it into smaller pieces, which can then be passed naturally in the urine or removed more easily.

It is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure rather than open surgery because it does not require large incisions.

The main types include extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, which uses shock waves from outside the body, and laser lithotripsy, which uses a scope and laser to break stones internally.

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, or ESWL, is a type of lithotripsy that sends shock waves through the skin and body to break stones in the kidney or ureter.

Laser lithotripsy uses a thin scope passed into the urinary tract and a laser fiber to break stones into tiny fragments.

Most people feel little to moderate discomfort during lithotripsy, and pain control is often provided through sedation, anesthesia, or pain medication.

The procedure often takes about 30 to 60 minutes, though the total time may be longer because of preparation and recovery.

Many lithotripsy procedures use sedation or anesthesia to keep you comfortable, and the exact type depends on the method used and your overall health.

After lithotripsy, you may pass stone fragments in your urine over several days or weeks, and you may be advised to drink plenty of fluids and strain your urine.

Common side effects include blood in the urine, bruising, mild pain, and passing stone fragments. Less common complications can include infection or blockage by stone pieces.

People with certain kidney or ureteral stones that are not too large and are in a suitable location are often good candidates, but the decision depends on many medical factors.

Yes, lithotripsy may not be recommended for very large stones, certain stone types, pregnancy, bleeding disorders, active infection, or some anatomical conditions.

Its effectiveness depends on the stone size, location, and type. Some stones break up and pass easily, while others may require repeat treatment or a different procedure.

Some patients only need one session, but others may need repeat treatments if the stone is large, hard, or does not break up completely.

Preparation may include fasting, adjusting medications such as blood thinners, and having imaging tests or blood work. Your doctor will give specific instructions.

Many people go home the same day after the procedure, once they are awake, stable, and able to urinate or meet discharge requirements.

Lithotripsy usually breaks the stone into smaller pieces rather than removing it directly, so the fragments still need to pass out of the body or be removed later if needed.

Lithotripsy breaks stones into smaller pieces using energy, while other treatments may involve watching the stone pass naturally, using medication, or removing it with instruments or surgery.