Shockwave Lithotripsy for Kidney Stones

Lithotripsy is a procedure in which high-energy sound waves are directed at the kidney stones, breaking them into tiny pieces that can pass through the urinary tract and out of the body.

This procedure is typically recommended for people with a kidney stone that could cause blockage or pain if it passes into the ureter. Lithotripsy may work best for stones in the kidney but can also be used for stones in the ureter. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or patients with bleeding problems.

In cases involving large stones, the surgeon may use a stent, a short flexible tube, to hold the ureter open. This will enable small stone pieces to pass without blocking the ureter. After a lithotripsy procedure, stone fragments usually pass in the urine for a few days and may cause mild discomfort. In cases involving larger or multiple stones, additional treatments may be required.

• On the day of your procedure do not eat or drink anything. This includes chewing gum and candy.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• If you are on blood thinning medication such as Coumadin, aspirin, Ibuprofen, or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, you will need to discontinue the medicine 7 days prior to your surgery unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
• You may be instructed to stop taking other medications prior to surgery. Ask your doctor to be sure.
• If you take antibiotics prior to dental work or have an orthopedic prosthesis, or if you were told by another physician to take antibiotics prior to surgery, please let your doctor know.
• No eating or drinking after midnight the night before your surgery except for medications as mentioned above. No alcohol 24 hours prior to surgery.
• You will be receiving anesthesia for this surgery. You will see an anesthesiologist who will discuss this with you prior to surgery.
• Plan to remain at our treatment center for 2-3 hours after the procedure. You will require a ride home.

• You will be discharged from the recovery area as soon as you are fully awake, alert, and taking fluids by mouth. It can be as soon as 30-60 minutes or as much as a couple hours after the procedure.
• You will receive a prescription for pain medication after your surgery. You may experience some pain and aching in your back for 1-7 days following the procedure. The pain and discomfort is normal. If the pain becomes severe, please call the office.
• You may be asked to strain your urine for fragments that should be brought to the clinic for analysis.
• You may experience some discomfort while urinating after the procedure. If you have severe burning or pain with urination that is not improving, call the office.
• There are no dietary restrictions following the procedure. We encourage you to increase your fluid intake to help encourage stone fragments to pass.

• No heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for one week.
• It is OK to shower.
• It is OK to drive when you are not taking pain medication.