Exploring the Benefits of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) for Treating Kidney Stones
Whether it’s a telltale pain in your side, the sight of red-tinged urine or a few small stones that appear on an X-ray, kidney stones are easily identifiable. If you’ve been diagnosed with kidney stones, you may be wondering what treatment options are available to you. One of the most common treatments for kidney stones is Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Let’s dive into what this process entails and when it’s recommended.
What is Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy?
Also known as ESWL, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is an intra-operative procedure used to break down and remove large kidney stones. It involves using sound waves to create vibrations that break apart larger kidney stones into smaller particles that can more easily pass via the urinary tract. The procedure typically lasts between 45 minutes and one hour and does not require any incisions or needles.
When Should I Consider ESWL?
Your doctor will recommend ESWL if your stone(s) is too large to pass on its own or if medications don’t seem to be helping dissolve it. Additionally, they may suggest ESWL if they think you cannot withstand the pain of passing the stone without assistance, or if there is a risk of infection due to the stone being lodged in your urinary tract for an extended period of time.
What Are the Advantages of ESWL?
One major advantage of ESWL is that it requires no incisions or needles, making it relatively low-risk compared to surgical procedures such as ureteroscopy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Additionally, since this procedure does not require anesthesia, there are fewer risks associated with complications from general anesthesia versus other types of surgery. Finally, since ESWL does not involve any cutting or tissue manipulation, there tends to be minimal postoperative pain and recovery times tend to be short compared to other forms of treatment for kidney stones.
Are There Any Disadvantages?
It’s important to note that some people may experience mild discomfort during their session ranging from light pressure or tingling sensations in their back or abdomen due to the sound waves used during ESWL therapy. Additionally, this treatment option may not always work; depending on the size and location of your stone(s), they may need additional treatments such as ureteroscopy or PCNL instead. Finally, some insurance companies may not cover all costs associated with these procedures so it’s important to check with yours before moving forward.
In brief
Overall, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a safe and effective way to treat kidney stones that are too large for medications alone but don’t require more invasive treatments such as surgery. If you’ve been diagnosed with a large kidney stone(s), you should talk with your doctor about whether ESWL might be right for you!
