Shock Wave Lithotripsy

Passing a kidney stone can be very painful. Shock wave lithotripsy is a treatment that helps by breaking the kidney stone into smaller pieces that are easier to pass. This treatment is also called extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Lithotripsy takes about an hour. It’s done in a hospital, lithotripsy center, or mobile lithotripsy van. You will likely go home the same day.

During the Procedure

• You receive medicine to prevent pain and help you relax or sleep during lithotripsy. Once this takes effect, the procedure will start.

• Your healthcare provider then uses x-ray or ultrasound to find the exact location of the kidney stone.

• Sound waves are aimed at the stone and sent at high speed. If you’re awake, you may feel a tapping as they pass through your body.

After the Procedure

• You’ll be monitored in a recovery room for about 1–2 hours. Antibiotics and pain medicine may be prescribed before you leave.

• You’ll have a follow-up visit with the doctor. 

• If large pieces remain in your kidney, you may need a second lithotripsy or another procedure.

• You may be asked to strain your urine to collect stone particles. These will be studied in the lab.

Passing the Stone

It can take a day to several weeks for the pieces of stone to leave your body. Drink plenty of liquids to help flush your system. During this time:

• Your urine may be cloudy or slightly bloody. 

• You may have a slight fever and some pain. Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medicine as instructed by your healthcare provider.