Lithotripsy

And, if you’ve already had a kidney stone, you are at a greater risk for having another one. Your Urologist will be involved in your medical evaluation to determine testing and assessment of risk for more kidney stones. Sometimes stones will pass out of your body and your physician will likely prescribe plenty of water, plenty! And, usually a pain medication. But, if complications occur, such as a blockage or infection, then lithotripsy may be used to break up the stones so they can then pass out of the body. High energy shock waves break up the stones. The waves, which pass easily through the body without injury, but are strong enough to break the stones, are emitted by Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL.) During the procedure, patients usually lie on a water-filled cushion and x-rays or ultrasound tests are used to pinpoint the location of the stones.