What Is Lithotripsy?
Lithotripsy is a modern, non-invasive medical procedure used to break kidney stones, ureteral stones, or bladder stones into smaller fragments, making them easier to pass naturally through urine. It is one of the most effective treatments for patients struggling with painful kidney stones that do not pass on their own.
This procedure is highly preferred because it avoids traditional open surgery, minimises recovery time, and provides long-lasting relief from stone-related symptoms such as severe back pain, blood in urine, or urinary tract obstruction.
Lithotripsy is commonly recommended for patients with stones that are too large, cause repeated infections, or obstruct normal kidney or urinary function. It's important to note that while lithotripsy treats existing stones, it does not prevent the formation of future stones.
Types of Lithotripsy
According to trusted medical sources, there are several types of lithotripsy techniques depending on the location, size, and type of kidney or urinary stones.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
The most common and widely used method, ESWL, uses high-energy sound waves directed from outside the body to break kidney stones into small fragments. These fragments pass naturally in urine over a few days or weeks. ESWL is non-invasive and has minimal downtime, making it suitable for most patients.
Laser Lithotripsy
This method uses a thin scope inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the stone, where laser energy precisely breaks it into tiny pieces. It is highly effective for ureteral and bladder stones and is often chosen when ESWL is not effective.
Percutaneous Lithotripsy (PCNL)
A minimally invasive surgical technique performed under anesthesia, where a small incision is made in the back to directly access and remove larger or complex kidney stones. PCNL is recommended for stones too large for ESWL or laser lithotripsy.
Electrohydraulic Lithotripsy (EHL)
A less commonly used method where an electrical spark generates shock waves to break stones. It is usually reserved for complex cases when other options are not suitable.
30 Mins - 1 Hours
Surgery Duration
Local/General Anesthesia
Anesthesia Used
2-4 Weeks
Full Recovery Timeline
When is Lithotripsy Recommended?
Lithotripsy a non-invasive procedure to break kidney stones into smaller fragments, is recommended when stones are too large or painful to pass naturally. Based on clinical guidance, here are the main reasons patients may need lithotripsy:
- Large or Painful Kidney Stones: If kidney stones cause severe pain, urinary blockage, or bleeding and cannot pass on their own, lithotripsy offers an effective solution to break them into smaller pieces.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Stones can trigger repeated infections. Lithotripsy helps by removing the root cause, reducing the risk of future infections and complications.
- Stones Causing Kidney Damage or Obstruction: If kidney stones block urine flow or put pressure on the kidneys, lithotripsy is recommended to prevent long-term kidney damage.
- Failure of Other Treatments: When medications, increased hydration, or other non-surgical treatments do not work, lithotripsy is often the next step for safe and effective relief.
Preparing for Lithotripsy Procedure
Preparing for your lithotripsy surgery is essential for safe treatment and a smooth recovery. Here are the important steps:
Medical Evaluation & Pre-Op Visit
- Share your complete medical history, current medications and allergies with your doctor.
- Routine tests such as blood work, urinalysis, kidney function tests, ECG, or imaging (ultrasound/CT scan) may be required to confirm readiness for lithotripsy.
- Ensure all reports are submitted before the procedure to avoid delays and ensure the safest treatment plan.
Health Habits & Lifestyle Adjustments
- Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before the lithotripsy procedure, as it may delay healing.
- Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications like aspirin, NSAIDs, and certain supplements at least 1-2 weeks before surgery to reduce bleeding risks.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support faster recovery after lithotripsy.
Prepare Your Home and Support System
- Arrange reliable transportation, as you may feel drowsy after anesthesia or sedation.
- Keep essentials such as water, prescribed medications, and comfortable clothing within reach at home.
- Plan and prepare light meals in advance, as you may need rest and limited activity for a few days after the kidney stone treatment.
The Day Before & Day of Lithotripsy
- Follow fasting instructions as advised by your doctor, usually avoiding food and drink 6-8 hours before the procedure.
- Take only approved medications with a small sip of water on the day of treatment.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes and avoid jewellery, lotions, perfumes, or nail polish before arriving at the hospital.
What Happens During Lithotripsy Surgery?
Lithotripsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to break down kidney stones or stones in the urinary tract into smaller fragments, allowing them to pass naturally through urine. It is generally recommended for stones that are too large to pass on their own or cause significant pain.
Anesthesia
On the day of your lithotripsy procedure, you'll meet the medical team for a final review. Depending on your case, either local anaesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia is given to keep you comfortable during the treatment.
Positioning & Imaging Guidance
You will be positioned on a specialised treatment table, and imaging such as X-ray or ultrasound will be used to locate the kidney stone precisely. This ensures the shock waves are accurately directed at the stone.
Shock Wave Delivery
High-energy shock waves are transmitted through the skin to the stone using a lithotripter device. These waves break the kidney stone into small fragments, making them easier to pass naturally through urine.
Fragment Passage
Once the stone is fragmented, your body gradually eliminates the pieces over the following days to weeks. Your doctor may recommend increased hydration or prescribe medication to ease the passage of stone fragments.
Post-Procedure Recovery
After lithotripsy, you'll be observed in a recovery area until anesthesia wears off. Mild discomfort, bruising or blood in the urine may occur temporarily. Most patients can return home the same day with specific recovery instructions.
Recovery After Lithotripsy Surgery Procedure
Most patients can resume daily activities within a day or two, although strenuous activity should be avoided for a few days. You may notice blood in the urine, discomfort while urinating or the passage of stone fragments for several days. Pain relievers and increased fluid intake are usually recommended to ease recovery and increase stone passage.
Lithotripsy Aftercare
- Observation: If sedation or anesthesia was used, you'll be observed in a recovery area until you're awake and stable.
- Pain Management: You may experience some discomfort or mild pain after the procedure. Your healthcare team will provide pain relief instructions.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out the stone fragments from your urinary system.
- Physical Activity: Light physical activity can help promote the passage of stone fragments. However, avoid strenuous activities initially.
- Follow-Up: You will likely have a follow-up appointment with your urologist to assess the success of the procedure and monitor your recovery.
- Passing Stone Fragments: Over the following days or weeks, you may pass stone fragments in your urine.
- Diet: Reduce intake of foods high in oxalate, like spinach and chocolate, and limit sodium and animal protein intake. Consult your urologist for dietary recommendations.
- Citrus Fruits: Incorporate citrus fruits that contain citrate, which may help prevent stone formation.
Benefits of Lithotripsy Treatment
Lithotripsy is a modern, non-invasive procedure designed to treat kidney stones and urinary tract stones. It uses high-energy shock waves to break stones into smaller fragments, allowing them to pass naturally without the need for open surgery.
Key Benefits Include:
- Non-Invasive Procedure: Avoids surgical incisions, reducing pain and recovery time.
- Effective Stone Fragmentation: Breaks large stones into smaller pieces that can pass easily through urine.
- Minimal Hospital Stay: Many patients can return home the same day of treatment.
- Reduced Complications: Lower risk of infection and bleeding compared to traditional surgery.
- Quick Recovery: Patients can resume normal activities within a few days.
- Precision Targeting: Imaging guidance ensures stones are treated accurately, sparing surrounding tissues.
- Versatility: Effective for different types of stones, including calcium oxalate and uric acid stones.
- Long-Term Kidney Health: Helps prevent stone recurrence and associated urinary tract complications.
What Are the Risks of Lithotripsy?
Although lithotripsy is generally safe and well-tolerated, some risks and side effects may occur depending on stone size, location and patient health.
Common Risks and Possible Complications:
- Pain or Discomfort: Mild pain or cramping may occur as stone fragments pass.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): Temporary bleeding is common after the procedure.
- Infection Risk: Urinary tract infection may occur if bacteria are present.
- Stone Fragments Remaining: Occasionally, fragments may not pass completely, requiring additional treatment.
- Damage to Surrounding Tissue: Rare, but shock waves can affect nearby organs.
- Urinary Blockage: Stone fragments may temporarily block urine flow.
- Repeated Sessions: Large or hard stones may require more than one treatment.
With proper consultation, accurate imaging, and post-procedure care, the risks can be minimised, and patients can enjoy effective, long-lasting relief from kidney stones through lithotripsy.
How Much Does Lithotripsy Cost?
The cost of lithotripsy treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the size and number of kidney stones, the type of lithotripsy procedure (such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy), the surgeon's expertise, and the hospital or clinic facilities.
On average, the cost of lithotripsy surgery in India typically ranges between Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 70,000. Additional charges may apply for pre-procedure tests, anesthesia, medications and post-operative care.
Patients are advised to consult a qualified urologist to get a detailed estimate based on their specific condition and treatment requirements. Many hospitals also offer flexible payment options or packages for lithotripsy procedures.
040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
