Kidney stones are small crystals made of kidney secretions. While most stones are small enough to move through the urinary system, some stones grow large enough to get painfully stuck. Fortunately, surgery is not always required to remove a stubborn kidney stone. The urology department at Richmond University Medical Center explains what lithotripsy is, how it works, and what patients can expect from this non-invasive treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Lithotripsy uses ultrasonic energy to break apart kidney stones, making them small enough to pass through the urinary system.
- A brief fasting period is required before lithotripsy. Patients should also inform the physician of pregnancy, bleeding disorders, blood-thinning medications, and kidney infections.
- Lithotripsy is performed as an outpatient procedure with or without anesthesia. The procedure takes one hour to complete, followed by a few hours in a recovery room.
- Recovery takes a few days. Extra fluids are recommended, but patients may otherwise resume their normal activities and diet after treatment.
What Is Lithotripsy?
Lithotripsy is a non-invasive treatment for kidney stones. It treats stones by targeting them with a concentrated beam of ultrasonic energy, or high-frequency sound waves. The energy breaks the stone apart into small pieces that can pass through the urinary system. This method effectively eliminates painful kidney stones without surgery, making it preferable for patients and physicians alike.
Who May Be a Candidate for Lithotripsy?
Lithotripsy is most effective for small stones at certain locations in the urinary system. Some types of kidney stones respond better than others, and the stone must also be visible with an X-ray so the physician can target it effectively.
While lithotripsy is a safe procedure, there are certain health conditions that may cause complications or make the procedure less effective. Lithotripsy is not recommended for patients who:
- Are pregnant
- Have a bleeding disorder
- Use blood-thinning medications
- Have certain types of pacemakers
- Have a chronic kidney infection
- Have scarring or an obstruction in the urinary tract
Lithotripsy is also discouraged for urgent cases. Lithotripsy does not remove the stone by itself; it only breaks the stone down for safe passage. If the patient needs immediate removal, then surgery or ureteroscopy is preferred to eliminate the stone all at once.
Before the Procedure
Before lithotripsy, the physician will request imaging tests to locate the stone. Imaging results help determine whether lithotripsy will be effective. The physician will then provide instructions to prepare for treatment. Patients may need to fast for a brief period before treatment. They should also inform the physician of any health condition that may interfere with lithotripsy.
What Happens During Lithotripsy?
Lithotripsy is performed as an outpatient procedure. Patients may be put to sleep with anesthesia, or they may be given a sedative to keep them awake but comfortable during the procedure. The patient is first asked to remove their clothing and put on a gown. The procedure then begins with these steps:
- The patient is positioned on a water-filled cushion or immersed in a tub.
- The stone is located using fluoroscopy.
- Using fluoroscopy guidance, the physician aims an ultrasonic beam at the stone. If the patient is awake, they may feel a light tapping on the skin.
- The physician may place a stent in the ureter to help the stone fragments pass.
The whole procedure takes about an hour to complete. Afterward, the patient is moved to a recovery room until the anesthetic or sedative wears off. The patient can go home once they are alert and their blood pressure is stable.
Recovery After Lithotripsy
Patients can resume their normal activities right away. They can follow their normal diet, but they should drink extra fluids to dilute urine and help the kidney stone fragments pass. Most patients experience a few mild side effects, which include:
- Blood in urine
- Bruising on the back or abdomen
- Soreness
The physician will recommend painkillers for soreness. Certain pain medications can make the bleeding worse, so patients should only take the recommended medication. If the patient experiences intense pain, burning sensations, urinary frequency, or a fever, they should contact their physician.
Learn More About Kidney Stone Treatment at Richmond University Medical Center
Painful kidney stones don’t always require surgery. Richmond University Medical Center offers lithotripsy to Staten Island, New York, residents, helping them recover without invasive treatments. We are committed to providing high-quality care and education for our community. Contact us today to make an appointment and learn more about what lithotripsy is and how it helps.
Lithotripsy FAQs
Is lithotripsy painful?
Lithotripsy is not painful, although patients may experience some soreness during recovery. If you experience extreme lower back pain or a burning sensation after lithotripsy, then contact a physician.
What is the difference between shock wave lithotripsy and laser lithotripsy?
Shock wave lithotripsy uses ultrasound and is non-invasive. Laser lithotripsy uses an ureteroscope to break apart kidney stones with a laser. This method is more invasive than shock wave lithotripsy but is still considered minimally invasive.
Can kidney stones come back after lithotripsy?
Yes, kidney stones can come back after lithotripsy. Patients should speak with their physicians about kidney stone prevention to avoid a recurrence.
