Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

What is ESWL?

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a non-invasive medical procedure used to treat kidney stones and occasionally stones in the ureter or bladder. ESWL uses focused shock waves to break stones into smaller fragments, making them easier to pass naturally through the urinary tract.

What happens during ESWL?

ESWL uses a machine (lithotripter) to generate high-energy sound waves outside of your body or extracorporeally. These shock waves are focused on the kidney stone using imaging guidance like ultrasound or X-ray.

The waves shatter the stone into tiny pieces, which can then be passed in urine over time. The procedure takes between 30 minutes to one hour on average.

Why is ESWL performed?

ESWL is typically used for:

  • Kidney stones that are 5mm to 20mm in size.

  • Stones are located in the kidney or the upper ureter.

  • Patients who prefer a non-surgical treatment option.

  • Calcium oxalate stones respond well to shock waves.

Recovery

  • Mild back pain

  • Blood in urine

  • Some bruising may occur

    Patients may be prescribed pain medication and advised to drink plenty of water.

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