Lithotripsy is a medical procedure used to treat kidney stones. The term “lithotripsy” is derived from the Greek words litho, meaning stone, and tripsis, meaning to crush. This treatment uses shock waves or laser energy to break stones into smaller fragments, which can then be easily passed out of the body through urine.

What Lithotripsy Does

The primary purpose of lithotripsy is to fragment kidney stones into smaller pieces that can pass through the urinary tract more easily. Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can cause severe pain, urinary tract infections, and complications if they obstruct the flow of urine.

How Lithotripsy Works

Lithotripsy can be performed using different techniques, with the most common being:

1. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

This technique uses shock waves generated outside the body to break up stones. The patient lies on a water-filled cushion, and the shock waves are focused on the stones using X-ray or ultrasound guidance. The energy from the shock waves breaks the stones into smaller pieces that can pass through the urinary tract.

2. Laser Lithotripsy

This method involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a ureteroscope through the urethra and bladder into the ureter or kidney. A laser fiber is then used to deliver energy directly to the stone, fragmenting it into smaller pieces. This technique is often used for stones that are too large or too hard for ESWL.

Triangle Lithotripsy exclusively provides Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL), which is the only non-invasive kidney stone treatment available.

Overview of the Procedure

Pre-procedure

Assessment: Patients undergo imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds to determine the size, location, and type of stone.

Preparation: Patients may need to stop certain medications before the procedure and will be instructed to fast for a few hours. Anesthesia or sedation is usually administered to ensure comfort.

During the Procedure

During the ESWL treatment, the patient lies on a special table or water cushion. Shock waves are generated and focused on the stone using imaging guidance. The procedure typically lasts about 30-60 minutes. Patients might feel a tapping sensation or mild discomfort.

Post-procedure

Recovery: Patients are monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Most can go home the same day.

Passing Fragments: Over the following days to weeks, the fragmented stones pass through the urinary tract. Patients are advised to drink plenty of water to facilitate this process.

Follow-up: A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and check if any stone fragments remain.

Benefits of Lithotripsy

  • Non-Invasive: Compared to surgical options, ESWL lithotripsy is non-invasive, resulting in shorter recovery times and less pain.
  • Effective: It is highly effective for stones of various sizes and compositions, particularly those located in the kidney and upper urinary tract.
  • Outpatient Procedure: Triangle Lithotripsy’s ESWL is an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day.
  • Reduced Risk: The risk of complications is lower compared to surgical interventions, making it a safer option for many patients.

Lithotripsy has revolutionized the treatment of urinary stones, offering a safe, effective treatment. ESWL in particular is a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgery. By breaking down stones into smaller fragments through the use of shockwaves, lithotripsy facilitates the natural passage of the stone out of the body, reducing pain and preventing complications. As technology advances, lithotripsy techniques continue to improve, providing better outcomes and enhanced patient experiences.