Q: Which Doctor Should I Consult for ESWL or Lithotripsy?
A: Consult Urologist if you need ESWL or lithotripsy or treatment for stones in the urinary tract.
Q: What are the Side Effects of ESWL?
A: Once the treatment is done, there maybe be blood in urine and possibly abdominal pain or ache for a few days. Some people may experience cramping pain as broken pieces of stone make their way out of the body. Oral pain medications and drinking lots of water can help to relieve symptoms.
Q: What are Complications of Lithotripsy?
A: Sometimes, stone is not broken completely or big pieces remain and additional treatments may be required. Rarely, more serious problems occur like bleeding near the kidney requiring blood transfusion, damage to the area surrounding the stone or pieces of stone blocking urine flow. Visit the hospital if you feel an urge for urination even after emptying the bladder or in extreme pain even when taking pain medicines.
Q: Are all Kidney Stones Removed by ESWL or Lithotripsy?
A: No not all kidney stones can be removed using ESWL or lithotripsy. Some stones will require intra-corporeal lithotripsy using -
- A tube called nephroscope which is inserted into the kidney through small surgical cut to treat kidney stones.
- A small lighted tube called ureteroscope that is inserted through the bladder into ureter to treat ureteric stones.
Q: Would I Require Open Surgical Procedure?
A: This is very rare for any type of stone with the current methods of treatment
Q: What is a Double J Stent?
A: Double J stent is a thin long tube that is inserted before or after a procedure where the patency of ureter after the procedure maybe compromised. These are temporarily placed and are removed after few weeks or months. They should not be forgotten to be removed or left permanently as they can get infected or encrusted with stones. Many units will send you a reminder if your stent has not been removed.
Q: How Much is the Cost of Lithotripsy?
A: Cost of the procedure varies. It is recommended to check with your urologist or medical center for information regarding current costs. If you want to take this procedure contact with your insurance company too and find out if it would be covered.
Q: If I am Pregnant and Have a Stone can I Undergo ESWL?
A: Pregnant women should not undergo ESWL as the high intensity acoustic waves can damage the fetus.
