Lithotripsy is a procedure that helps break up kidney stones to pass them out in the urine. Doctors use lithotripsy as a common treatment option for kidney stones. Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys.
The problem is that as these stones move through the urinary tract and widen it, it causes severe pain. Moreover, it causes obstruction of the urinary tract. A lithotripsy serves to shatter these stones.
The idea behind this is that this way the patient can eliminate them more easily. There are different ways to perform this technique as well as some important aspects to consider before applying it. For this reason, we have decided to explain everything you need to know about this procedure in today’s article.
Lithotripsy is a noninvasive medical procedure used to break up and remove stones from the urinary tract and gallbladder. The stones are broken into small pieces that can be passed in the urine.
Lithotripsy Risk Factors
Lithotripsy is generally a safe and effective procedure. It is less invasive than other surgical procedures and typically results in less pain and a shorter recovery time. However, there are some risks associated with the procedure, including:
- Injury to the urinary tract
- Injury to the intestines
- Bleeding
- Infection
If you are considering lithotripsy, be sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
How Lithotripsy Works?
Lithotripsy technique uses shock waves to break up stones in the kidney, gallbladder, or urinary bladder. The shock waves are created outside the body and passed through the skin and tissues to the stones. The stones shatter into small pieces that can be passed in the urine.
Shock waves lithotripsy is a safe and relatively painless procedure. Doctors usually perform it as an outpatient procedure, meaning that you go home the same day. You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the shock waves will be applied. Doctors may also give you a sedative to help you relax.
How Effective is Lithotripsy?
Kidney stones are a very common problem and can be very painful. This treatment is very effective in breaking up kidney stones and most people do not need any further treatment after the lithotripsy.
Since Lithotripsy is a non-invasive procedure, it is considered safe. However, there is a small risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, perforation of the urinary tract or bowel, and death.
Recovery After the Operation
The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes. You may feel a pulsing sensation as the shock waves pass through your body. Some people report a feeling of warmth or pressure. You may also have some bruising and swelling in the area where the shock waves were applied. This is temporary and will go away on its own.
Most people experience minimal discomfort after the procedure and are able to go home the same day. You will need to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the stone fragments from your body. It is important to drink fluids even after the procedure to keep your urinary tract healthy.
You may experience some pain or discomfort if a stone is located near the urethra. If this is the case, you will receive medications to help relieve the pain. You should also avoid strenuous activity for a few days after the procedure.