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I heard my Doctor mention ESWL as a possible treatment, but didn understand what it was. What is ESWL and what does it do?

April 26, 2017doctor eswl heard mention possible treatment understand

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I heard my Doctor mention ESWL as a possible treatment, but didn understand what it was. What is ESWL and what does it do?

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ESWL is an abbreviation for Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. This method of treatment uses a special instrument that emits sound (shock) waves to break apart existing kidney stones. The smaller pieces can then (more easily) travel through the urinary tract and pass out of the body. The process begins by lying on a water-filled cushion. The surgeon/physician uses x rays or an ultrasound test to locate the stone. Once its location has been verified, high-energy sound waves pass through your body without injury and work to break the stone into passable pieces. The process will take about an hour. It is not uncommon for you to receive a sedative or local anesthetic to ease any discomfort. Your surgeon may use a stent if your stones are larger than 2.5cm, or 1 inch.