Kidney stones are solid masses of unwanted salts and minerals that can form inside the kidneys. In about 90 percent of cases, the stone is easily passed with urine, however, if it does not, you may need proper treatment to remove the stone. ESWL or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy kidney stone is one of the same treatments available for removal, which works by breaking stones into small parts, making them easier to pass through the urine tract, which causes any blockage. 

What is ESWL? 
ESWL or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy is a non-invasive, advanced treatment option recommended for patients with large kidney stones, which cannot pass through the urinary tract by themselves. The process is usually considered to remove stones that occur anywhere between 4 mm to 2 cm in diameter. The process works not only for kidney stones that are present in the kidney but also those that are stuck in any part of the ureter.

Who Can Undergo the Process?
ESWL (Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy) is not suitable for all. Your eligibility depends on such factors: 

• Stone size, number, and composition – large or rigid stones may require other treatments. 
• Using X-ray technology you have physical abnormalities, then it may be difficult for you to make a situation. 
• Medical test before treatment – Your doctor will check if you are a suitable candidate. 

If you have then you cannot be eligible for ESWL: 

• Pregnancy-ridiculous waves and X-rays can harm the baby. 
• Bleeding disorder – risk of excessive bleeding. Kidney or urinary tract infections – can spoil the condition. 
• Kidney Cancer – ESWL is not a treatment option. 
• Structural or functional renal abnormalities – can cause complications. 
• Always consult your doctor to determine the best treatment for you.

Steps to Remove Kidney Stones With ESWL
It is necessary to understand the process if you are considering ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) to remove kidney stones. This non-invasive treatment does not require a long hospital stay and is usually completed in about an hour. process step: 

• You will lie on a table, and the drug will be given through an IV. 
• Mild anesthesia helps you stay relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. 
• You will be placed on a pillow filled with water or immersed in a tub. 
• X-rays or ultrasound imaging will accurately detect stones. 
• Shock waves will be applied to break the stone into small pieces. 
• If necessary, a stent can be placed to help pass pieces of stone. 
• Once the stone is fully broken, the procedure is complete. You will be taken to a recovery room and monitored until you are stable..

Life After ESWL Procedure 
Since extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is a completely non-invasive process, you do not require weeks or months of rest and can resume your normal day activities within a few days. However, you will definitely need to drink lots of water, to ensure that stone pieces come out easily, without any pain or trouble. It was quite natural to notice blood marks in your urine or a minor injury mark on the back and abdomen for the first few days. In some cases, the patient may need to take antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection. You also have to go for regular followers to ensure that there are no complications.

How Successful Is the Process?
Patients who are considered a good candidate for extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy experience commendable results with 70 to 90 percent to get rid of stones within the first 3 to 4 months after the procedure. The success rate for those patients is high in which the kidney stone is mobile and is present in the upper part of the urinary tract. It is quite possible that some stone pieces can be left behind even after treatment. In such cases, the patient will require another session of treatment to get them out. 
If you are having kidney stones and think that Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) can be an option for you, consult with our urology experts at Matoshree Clinic. Our specialists will evaluate your condition and guide you through the best treatment options for effective kidney stone removal.