1. Procedure:
ESWL utilizes shock waves generated outside the body to break down kidney stones into smaller fragments. These shock waves are directed towards the kidney stone using a machine called a lithotripter. The patient lies on a water-filled cushion, which helps transmit the shock waves without causing harm to surrounding tissues. The shock waves pass through the skin and body tissues, focusing on the kidney stone, causing it to fragment into smaller pieces. These smaller stone fragments can then pass through the urinary tract more easily, eventually being excreted from the body during urination.
During the ESWL procedure, the patient is positioned on the treatment table, and imaging techniques like X-rays or ultrasound are used to locate the kidney stone accurately. The lithotripter is then positioned to deliver shock waves precisely to the stone. The shock waves are delivered in short bursts, typically lasting a few minutes. The entire procedure may take around 45 minutes to an hour.
2. Benefits:
ESWL offers several advantages over traditional surgical approaches for kidney stone treatment, including:
1. Non-invasive: ESWL does not require incisions or invasive surgery, reducing the risk of complications, infection, and postoperative pain.
2. Outpatient Procedure: In most cases, ESWL can be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
3. Short Recovery Time: Patients typically experience a quicker recovery period compared to surgical interventions.
4. High Success Rate: ESWL is effective in breaking down kidney stones of varying sizes and compositions.
5. No Anaesthesia: In many cases, ESWL can be performed using only mild sedation or local anaesthesia, avoiding the need for general anaesthesia.
3. Candidacy:
ESWL is suitable for patients with certain types of kidney stones, particularly those that are small in size and located in the kidney or upper ureter. The patient’s overall health and medical history are considered to determine if ESWL is the appropriate treatment option.
4. Recovery and Postoperative Care:
Following ESWL, patients may experience some discomfort or blood in their urine, which is normal and usually resolves within a few days. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage any discomfort. Patients are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the fragmented stone particles. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and evaluate the success of the treatment.
5. Risks and Complications:
While ESWL is generally considered safe, some potential risks and complications may include bruising, minor bleeding, or the need for additional treatments if the stone is not completely shattered.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a highly effective and non-invasive procedure for treating kidney stones. Its minimal risk, shorter recovery time, and high success rate make it a preferred treatment option for many patients, including those seeking kidney stone surgery in Chandigarh. Candidates for ESWL should discuss the procedure with a urologist to determine if it is the best approach for their specific condition. With its efficiency in breaking down kidney stones, ESWL continues to be a valuable tool in providing relief to patients suffering from urinary tract stones.
