ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy)

Non-Surgical Kidney Stone Treatment

What is ESWL?

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for kidney and ureteric stones. The procedure uses focused shock waves generated outside the body to break stones into tiny fragments, which are then naturally passed through urine.

ESWL does not require any incision, surgery, or insertion of instruments into the urinary tract. Most patients can return home the same day.

How Does ESWL Work?

During the procedure, the patient lies comfortably on the lithotripsy table. Shock waves are accurately focused on the stone under imaging guidance. These waves fragment the stone into smaller pieces, allowing them to pass naturally through the urinary system.

Benefits of ESWL

  • Completely non-invasive
  • No surgical incision
  • No hospitalization in most cases
  • No general anesthesia required
  • Minimal discomfort
  • Suitable for recurrent stone formers
  • Safe for children and elderly patients
  • Quick return to daily activities

Advantages of Dornier ESWL Technology

  • Advanced stone localization
  • High treatment precision
  • Minimal side effects
  • Excellent safety profile
  • Effective for stones up to 3 cm in selected cases
  • Ideal for patients unfit for surgery

Who is Suitable for ESWL?

  • Kidney stones up to 2-3 cm
  • Selected ureteric stones
  • Patients preferring non-surgical treatment
  • Patients with recurrent stone disease

Few cases done at Pramodini Urology Foundation

Upper 1/3rd Uteric Stone
Afer 5 minutes of ESWL
Afer 10 minutes of ESWL
Large Renal Stone
Afer 20 minutes of ESWL
At the end of first sitting of ESWL
When Patient come for 2nd sitting after 1 week
At the end of the 2nd sitting of ESWL
Bilateral ESWL done on 7 months old child

ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) – FAQs

What is ESWL?

ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break kidney or ureteric stones into smaller fragments.

Does ESWL require surgery?

No. ESWL is completely non-surgical and requires no incision.

Is anesthesia required for ESWL?

In many cases, anesthesia is not required or only minimal sedation may be used.

How many ESWL sessions are needed?

The number of sessions depends on the stone size, location, and hardness.

Can I go home the same day?

Yes, ESWL is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.

What is the success rate of ESWL?

Success rates can reach up to 95% in appropriately selected patients.