Kidney Stones Lithotripsy Procedure. Lithotripsy for kidney stones introduction this leaflet tells you about the procedure known as lithotripsy and serves to explain what is involved and the possible outcomes and complications. Shock wave lithotripsy swl is the most common treatment for kidney stones in the u s.
Lithotripsy procedure lithotripsy for kidney stones is a common procedure used by urologists to break down large stones or stones that are lodged. Lithotripsy is a medical procedure that uses shock waves or a laser to break down stones in the kidney gallbladder or ureter. Shock wave lithotripsy swl is the most common treatment for kidney stones in the u s.
This type of procedure is not the ideal treatment for everyone and there are definite pros and cons concerning lithotripsy for kidney stones.
Lithotripsy is one of the most common. Shock waves from outside the body are targeted at a kidney stone causing the stone to fragment. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy swl is a noninvasive procedure that uses shock waves to break stones in the kidney and ureter into pieces as small as grains of sand. Lithotripsy is usually done on an outpatient basis.