Doctors for Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL) in Hyderabad

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy, or ESWL, is used to treat kidney stones. It involves the use of high-energy shock waves that are focused on the location of the kidney stone, with the aim of breaking it up into smaller pieces that can be easily passed through the urinary tract. This technique has been used for many years and is considered a safe and effective method for treating kidney stones.

There are different types of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL), which vary based on the method used to generate and deliver the shock waves;

• Electromagnetic ESWL: This type of ESWL uses a machine that generates shock waves using an electromagnetic coil. The shock waves are then focused on the location of the kidney stone using a special device. Electromagnetic ESWL is one of the most commonly used types of ESWL, and is generally considered safe and effective for treating kidney stones.
• Piezoelectric ESWL: Piezoelectric ESWL uses a device that generates shock waves using a crystal that expands and contracts rapidly when an electric current is passed through it. This type of ESWL is less commonly used than electromagnetic ESWL, but it may be a good option for patients with certain types of kidney stones.
• Electrohydraulic ESWL: Electrohydraulic ESWL uses a device that generates shock waves by creating a spark between two electrodes. The spark generates a shock wave, which is then focused on the location of the kidney stone. This type of ESWL is less commonly used than electromagnetic ESWL, but it can be very effective for treating large or stubborn kidney stones.
• Pneumatic ESWL: Pneumatic ESWL uses a device that generates shock waves by compressing and rapidly expanding a chamber of air. This type of ESWL is less commonly used than electromagnetic or electrohydraulic ESWL, but it may be a good option for patients who cannot undergo other types of ESWL due to medical reasons.

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of the Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) procedure in Hyderabad, specific diagnostic tests must be conducted before undergoing the treatment. These tests are personalized for each individual, as determined by their urologist;

• X Rays: X Rays are commonly used to diagnose kidney stones. X Rays can help your urologist determine the size, location, and number of kidney stones you have. X Ray results also help in monitoring the progress of ESWL treatment.
• Abdominal ultrasound: High-frequency sound waves are used by abdominal ultrasonography to provide images of the inside of the body. This test can help your urologist determine the size, location, and number of kidney stones you have. Abdominal ultrasound is a non-invasive and painless test.
• MRI: Strong magnets and radio waves are used in the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) exam to provide precise images of the inside of the body. MRI may be used to diagnose and monitor certain types of kidney stones, especially those that are difficult to see on X Rays or ultrasound.
• Blood test: Blood tests may be used to assess kidney function and to detect certain medical conditions that can cause kidney stones, such as hyperparathyroidism. Blood tests can also help your urologist determine if you are healthy enough to undergo ESWL treatment.
• Urinalysis: Urinalysis is a test that examines a sample of your urine for signs of infection or other medical conditions. Urinalysis can also help your urologist determine the type of kidney stones you have, which can affect the type of treatment that is most effective.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) employs high-energy shock waves to break down kidney stones. It is a common and effective treatment option for those suffering from kidney stones, and is often preferred due to its minimally invasive nature. The ESWL procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis which means there is no hospitalization required and is approximately done under 45-60 minutes. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the procedure;

• Patient preparation: Before the procedure, the patient is typically given anesthesia or a sedative to help them relax. They may also be asked to refrain from eating or drinking for a certain period of time prior to the procedure.
• Locating the stones: The urologist will use imaging techniques such as X-rays or ultrasound to locate the kidney stones and access their size and precise location.
• Positioning the patient: The patient is placed on a special table or chair that allows the urologist to precisely target the stones with shock waves.
• Applying the shock waves: A special device called a lithotripter is used to deliver high-energy shock waves to the kidney stones. The lithotripter is typically positioned outside the patient's body and the shock waves are directed toward the stones through the skin and tissues.
• Breaking down the stones: The shock waves break the stones down into smaller pieces, which can then pass through the urinary tract and be excreted from the body.
• Post-procedure care: The patient is usually closely watched for a short while following the treatment to make sure there are no issues. They might be given a prescription for painkillers or told to use over-the-counter painkillers as needed. They may also be instructed to increase their fluid intake to help flush out any remaining stone fragments.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a safe and effective treatment option that offers numerous benefits to patients. Some of the benefits of ESWL are as follows;

• Non-invasive: ESWL is a non-surgical procedure, hence doesn’t require any incisions or cuts. This reduces the risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications associated with surgery.
• High success rate: ESWL has a high success rate in treating kidney stones, with up to 90% of patients experiencing complete stone clearance after a single treatment.
• Short recovery time: Unlike surgery, ESWL does not require a long recovery time. Within a few days, the majority of patients are able to resume their regular routines.
• Minimal discomfort: ESWL is a relatively painless procedure and patients only experience mild discomfort during the treatment.
• Cost-effective: ESWL is a cost-effective treatment option compared to surgery, as it does not require an overnight hospital stay and has a shorter recovery time.
• Repeatable: ESWL can be repeated if necessary, making it a viable option for patients with larger stones or stones that are difficult to treat with other methods.

ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) is considered to be a safe and effective treatment for kidney stones. However, like any medical procedure, ESWL may have certain side effects. Here are some of the potential side effects of this non-surgical procedure;

Pain and discomfort during and after the procedure: One of the most common side effects of ESWL is pain and discomfort during and after the procedure. This is because shock waves are used to break up the kidney stones, which can cause some discomfort. Patients may experience a dull ache in the back or side during the procedure, as well as mild pain and bruising in the treatment area afterwards.

• Blood in the urine: Another potential side effect of ESWL is blood in the urine. This is not a serious side-effect and usually goes away on its own within a few days. However, some patients may experience heavy bleeding, requiring medical attention.
• Infection: There is also a minimal risk of infection associated with ESWL. Patients are typically given antibiotics before and after the procedure to lessen the occurrence of infection.
• Kidney damage: Although rare, there is a small risk of kidney damage associated with ESWL. This is more common in patients who have pre-existing kidney problems or who have had multiple ESWL treatments.
• Blockage of the urinary tract: In rare cases, ESWL may cause a stone fragment to become lodged in the urinary tract, which can cause a blockage. Typically, medicine or a different technique can be used to treat this.

After undergoing Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL), it is important to take proper care of yourself to ensure a speedy recovery. The estimated recovery time after ESWL is typically a few days to a week, but the length of recovery time can vary from patient to patient. Below are mentioned the steps you can take to recover after ESWL;

• Rest and Pain Management: After ESWL, it is important to take rest for a few days and avoid any strenuous activity. You may experience mild discomfort or pain after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your urologist.
• Hydration and Diet: Drinking plenty of fluids is important to help flush out the small pieces of stones that may have broken up during the ESWL procedure. Your urologist may recommend drinking more water than usual for a few days after the procedure. It is also important to follow a healthy diet that is low in salt and rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Follow-up Appointments: Your urologist will schedule a follow-up appointment after the ESWL procedure to monitor your progress and ensure that the stones have been completely removed.
• Complications and When to Call Your Urologist: Although complications from ESWL are rare, it is important to be aware of the potential risks. Severe pain, fever, chills, or blood in urine, can be a sign of complication, hence contact your urologist immediately.