What Happens During ESWL Treatment?
Diagnosis
In general, the doctors suggest the following tests before ESWL surgery:
- Imaging tests (X Rays, abdominal ultrasound, MRI)
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test
- Blood test
- Urinalysis
Procedure:
The patient is administered spinal anesthesia before the surgery. The type of anesthesia used depends upon the surgeon.
Next, the patient is made to lie on a water-filled tub or cushion. The water or cushion prevents the surrounding organs from getting damaged.
In the process, the surgeon uses various imaging tests like x-rays or abdominal ultrasounds to locate the stone. Upon locating the stone, the surgeon releases a series of high-energy sound waves to break the stone into fine pieces. The surgeons adjust the sound waves’ power and intervals accordingly to break the stone into smaller fragments.
Once the stone is broken into smaller pieces, they are flushed out of the body.
The procedure generally takes 30-45 minutes, depending on the stone density, the medical health of the patient, and the surgeon’s expertise. ESWL may not be effective for all types of kidney stones and may require multiple sessions to break the stones completely. The surgeon may also choose to insert a ureteral stent in case of a large stone. A stent enlarges the passage of the ureter for smooth movement of stones and helps reduce the pain during the stone expulsion.