Extracorporeal shockwaves lithotripsy (ESWL)

ESWL is a gold standard noninvasive treatment option for smaller size kidney/ureteric stones (less than 2cm large}.

This procedure is performed using ultrasound shockwaves through the skin to the targeted area containing stone. The main aim is to break the stone in to smaller pieces to enable pass through your urine. You may need more than one session to successfully treat your kidney stone.

Sessions are performed as an outpatient procedure which means that you will not require anesthesia. The session takes approximately 30 minutes and we will ensure that you are in a comfortable lying position throughout.

We are using the brand-new generation of modular lithotripter - EDAP TMS from Sigmacon company containing New Diatron V shockwave generator with treatment depth up to 180 mm adapted to patients' morphology and a wide diameter generator providing more comfort and easier pain management.

Variable treatment head position for smooth and universal adaptation to all types of cases. Touch – screen, Universal X-ray C-arm clamping system, Isocentric Ultrasound Probe Support for cost effective ultrasound localization (to minimize radiation exposure for patient and ability to treat radiolucent stones).

Before your procedure

You may need to stay in the hospital for 2-3 hours. You will be asked to provide a urine sample and have up to date imaging (normally an X-Ray), we will recheck your blood pressure and basic assessment by nurse specialist/radiographer/doctor afterwards to evaluate the suitability for this procedure.

You may feel some discomfort or pain during your procedure and experience a sensation similar to that of being flicked with an elastic band.

After your procedure

Most of the patients afterwards feel absolutely fine but you may have some discomfort in the targeted area. If you require stronger pain relief during the procedure then we will ask that you have somebody to take you home and stay with you. To enhance the spontaneous passage of the fragments we encourage you to increase fluid intake (2-3 litres a day).  In case of discomfort / pain at home, your normal pain relief can be taken (ibuprofen, paracetamol, co-codamol, buscopan). If your pain worsens and you develop a high temperature, feel unwell or experience persistent significant bleeding, please call NHS 111. You may be transferred to the Urgent Care Centre at Kent and Canterbury Hospital (24 hours direct urology service).

Further information/pictures

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-stones/treatment/

https://www.baus.org.uk/patients/conditions/6/kidney_stones

https://www.baus.org.uk/patients/information/stone_disease_patient_advisory_group.aspx

https://www.baus.org.uk/patients/information_leaflets/category/10/stone_procedures