Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) Treatment In Gurgaon, India
What Is Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)?
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy or ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that breaks down kidney stones into smaller pieces causing instant relief from pain. The stones are broken into smaller fragments using high-frequency shockwaves generated from a machine called lithotriptor which subsequently get flushed out of the body via urine.
ESWL is considered an effective treatment for kidney stones up to 10mm in size. Certain medications can help the stone expulsion, which when happens naturally can be immensely painful. The shock-wave lithotripsy breaks the stones present in the ureter or kidneys into smaller particles, so they can come out naturally without causing much pain.
Who Should Undergo Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) Treatment?
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy is ideal for patients with smaller stones (size not greater than 10mm) present in the kidney or upper ureter. Urologists generally recommend ESWL procedure for patients with the following -
Small to Medium Kidney Stones:
Stones that are 4 mm to 10 mm in diameter are typically suitable for ESWL. Larger stones may require other treatments, such as percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) or ureteroscopy.
Stones Located in the Kidney or Upper Ureter:
Stones present in these areas are more accessible for shock wave targeting. In case of multiple or staghorn stones, the surgeon may recommend endoscopy or an invasive procedure.
How Can I Prepare For My ESWL Treatment?
Before undergoing an extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy procedure, the patients need to follow a set of instructions given by the hospital to minimize the complications. Here is how you can prepare for your ESWL treatment -
Fasting:
Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure is typically recommended.
Hydration:
Staying hydrated is important before the procedure and can help your body prepare for recovery.
Discuss History of Medical Conditions:
Inform your doctor about any history of allergies due to anesthesia, medical conditions, heart surgery, blood thinner medication, etc. to reduce the chances of risks due to the procedure.
Medical Evaluation:
Urologists recommend imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans to generate a 3D image of the abdomen which can help locate the kidney stones and determine their size and composition.
Blood Test:
Blood tests may be conducted to check for infections in the blood and investigate overall kidney functioning.
Urinalysis:
A urine culture test may be done to check and treat infection before the procedure.
Medication Adjustment:
The doctor may advise you to stop certain medications such as blood thinners for a few days before the procedure to minimize the risk of bleeding.
How Is Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy Procedure Performed?
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy is a non-invasive procedure which means there are no cuts or incisions. The procedure aims to break the stones into smaller fragments which get flushed out via urine. Here is what you can expect during the Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy procedure -
What Can I Expect After The ESWL Procedure?
Here is what you can expect after your Extracorporeal Shockwave lithotripsy procedure:
Immediate Recovery:
After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area for a short period before being discharged, often on the same day.
Passing Stone Fragments:
Over the following days or weeks, the patient may pass stone fragments in the urine. There may be mild discomfort or pain including burning during urination or cramping as the stones travel in the ureter.
Hydration:
Hydration is the key as drinking plenty of water can help flush out the stone fragments from the body. Drinking enough water or juice can build up urine which can eliminate stones from the body.
Pain Management:
There may be mild to moderate pain after the procedure which can subside with medications. The doctor may prescribe pain relievers or recommend over-the-counter medications to manage such discomfort.
Follow-Up Appointments:
Encourage regular consultations with the urologist to keep track of your kidney health and confirm all stone fragments have been eliminated from the body.
Are There Any Risks Or Complications Associated With The ESWL Treatment?
While ESWL is considered a safe procedure, there are some risks associated with it such as:
Temporary hematuria (blood in urine) is common after the procedure.
Mild to moderate pain may occur as stone fragments are eliminated through the ureter
Some patients may experience bruising or swelling at the treatment site where the shock waves were directed.
Incomplete Stone Fragmentation
In case of stubborn kidney stones that are difficult to break, additional sessions may be required to break up the stones fully.
Rarely, urinary tract infections may develop due to ESWL procedures and may require treatment with antibiotics.
Though rare, repeated procedures may cause minor kidney damage.
Extracorporeal Shockwave lithotripsy For Pediatric Kidney Stones:
Most symptoms of kidney stones are silent and many children may not know they have stone until it begins to grow or move in the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Therefore, it makes it crucial to have a comprehensive and integrated team of specialists that cater to the kidney stone treatment in children.
There are several advantages of the ESWL procedure for pediatric kidney stone treatment as it involves no incision making it less traumatic for children. Moreover, ESWL minimizes the risk of kidney damage compared to open surgery to ensure quick recovery and minimal complications.
Choose Artemis Hospitals For the Best Kidney Stone Treatment In Gurgaon.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a safe and effective treatment option for many patients with kidney stones. Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon has advanced technology, expert care, and a patient-centric approach for all urological disorders. If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones, get in touch with us to book an appointment at Artemis Hospitals for your kidney stone treatment.
Artemis Hospital has a team of highly skilled urologists with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating several urological disorders with a very high success rate.
For expert care, call us today at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91-959-928-5476. You can also easily schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices. Your health is our priority—let us help you take the next step toward healing.
Reviewed By Dr. Rajiv Yadav
Chairperson - Urology & Head, Urologic Oncology & Robotic Surgery
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be scars after ESWL treatment?
No, there will be no scars after the ESWL procedure does not involve any cuts or incisions. This means there will be no scars after the procedure.
What size of stones can be treated with ESWL?
Urologists recommend ESWL for kidney stones less than 10mm. Generally, a single stone of this size is easy to break into smaller pieces. However, depending on certain factors such as location, density, and number, the size of stones ranging from 10mm to 20mm can also be treated with ESWL with careful consideration.
What are the different surgical procedures for kidney stone treatment?
Depending on the type, location, and size of the stones, the urologist may recommend the following types of kidney stone treatment -
ESWL (Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy) for stone size up to 10mm
URSL (Ureteroscopic lithotripsy) for size of stones ranging from 10mm to 20mm
RIRS (Retrograde intrarenal surgery) for stone size up to 20mm
PCNL (Percutaneous nephrolithotomy/nephrolithotripsy) for very large stones greater than 20mm using minimal invasion
Who should not undergo ESWL Treatment?
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for kidney stone treatment is generally not recommended for:
Staghorn kidney stones larger than 20mm
Patients with bleeding disorders
Patients with active kidney infections, UTIs, or kidney cancer
Patients with abnormal kidney function.
Is ESWL treatment painful?
No, ESWL is not a painful treatment since it does not involve any incisions or cuts. Moreover, the patient is given local or general anesthesia to ensure sedation. There may be mild discomfort around the site where the shockwaves were targeted as the effect of anesthesia fades away.
How long does the ESWL procedure take?
ESWL procedure usually takes 45 minutes to an hour per session. However, the duration can vary depending on factors such as stone size, location of stone, etc.
Can my child undergo ESWL treatment?
Yes, children aged 10 and above can undergo extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy as it involves no incision and is considered safe for children. However, it is important to consult your urologist regarding your child’s health to understand the risks and benefits associated with the procedure.
When can I resume my work after ESWL?
Recovery after ESWL is quick since it does not involve any incision. Most people can resume activities within 1 to 2 days after the procedure. However, it may take a few weeks for stone fragments to completely pass away from the body.
What are the benefits of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy treatment?
Benefits of the ESWL procedure involve -
Non-invasive does not involve any cuts or incisions
Negligible Pain
No Scars
No Blood Loss
Outpatient Procedure where the patient can go home on the same day of the procedure
Effective for Small to Medium Stones
Faster Recovery
Is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy treatment expensive?
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy cost is not an expensive procedure. However, several factors such as diagnostic test cost, hospital stay (if required), anesthesia cost, number of sessions, etc. can impact the overall ESWL cost. Insurance coverage can significantly reduce the cost of ESWL procedures.
Is there insurance coverage for the ESWL procedure for kidney stone treatment?
Your procedure can be covered under insurance if it is deemed a medical necessity. Insurance coverage for ESWL depends on the type of insurance provider and the terms and conditions associated with it. To know more, you can call us today at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91-959-928-5476 to get an estimate for your ESWL treatment cost in Gurgaon.
Are kidney stones and gallbladder stones the same?
No, kidney stones are hard deposits of calcium, oxalate, and uric acid that form in the kidneys as a result of increased toxic waste in the urine. Gallbladder stones, on the other hand, form in the gallbladder due to the increased amount of cholesterol and bilirubin in the body.
Can the ESWL procedure cure gallbladder stones?
No, ESWL cannot cure gallbladder stones as the stones are present in the gallbladder and need to be removed surgically.
