Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a non-invasive treatment for kidney and upper ureteric stones. Shock waves generated outside the body are focused on the stone to break it into small fragments, which then pass naturally in the urine.
Who Is It For?
ESWL works best for small to medium-sized stones in the kidney or upper ureter. It is less effective for very hard stones, larger stones, and stones in some parts of the kidney, and may not be suitable for everyone. The best treatment for your stone depends on its size, position and composition, and your anatomy.
The Procedure
Performed as a day procedure under sedation or general anaesthetic
You lie on a treatment table while X-ray or ultrasound is used to target the stone
Shock waves are delivered through a cushion placed against your back or side
The treatment usually takes 45 minutes to an hour
After the Treatment
Blood in the urine is common for a few days
Bruising or discomfort over the treated area may occur
Stone fragments pass over the following days to weeks, which can cause episodes of pain
Drinking plenty of fluids helps the fragments pass
A follow-up X-ray or scan checks whether the stone has cleared; more than one treatment is sometimes needed
Who Should Not Have ESWL?
ESWL is not suitable during pregnancy, for people with untreated urinary infection or uncorrected bleeding problems, or for those who cannot temporarily stop blood-thinning medication. Your medications and medical history will be reviewed before treatment.
Risks
Risks include pain as fragments pass, urinary infection, fragments blocking the ureter (which may need a further procedure such as ureteroscopy), and, rarely, bleeding around the kidney.
Dr Samuel Davies, Consultant Urologist and Robotic Surgeon, can advise whether ESWL or ureteroscopy is the better option for your stone. To arrange an appointment, please contact our rooms on 07 3255 0311. A referral from your GP or specialist is needed to claim a Medicare rebate.
This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for an individual consultation. All surgical and medical procedures carry risks. Before proceeding, you should seek advice from an appropriately qualified health practitioner and, if you wish, a second opinion.