Ureteroscopy
A small telescope is passed through the urinary tract to locate and treat stones or investigate an obstruction without an external incision.
Renal Stone Treatment
Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
Focused shock waves generated outside the body break selected urinary stones into smaller fragments that can pass through the urinary tract.
- Dr. Anand Arumugam, MBBS, MS, M.Ch
- Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road
Procedure overview
What is Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)?
ESWL uses a lithotripter to direct energy at a stone under imaging guidance. Suitability depends on stone size, position, composition, anatomy and other health factors.
Important. This page provides general education. Your diagnosis, treatment choice and recovery plan must be confirmed in consultation.
When it may be considered
Clinical needs come before technique.
- 01Selected kidney or upper-ureter stones
- 02Stones of a suitable size and density
- 03Patients seeking a non-incisional option
- 04Cases where imaging shows a clear treatment path
Diagnosis & preparation
What happens before a decision.
Assessment may include
- A focused history and physical examination
- Urine and blood tests relevant to the condition
- Ultrasound, X-ray, CT, MRI or other appropriate imaging
- Anaesthesia and general-health assessment when surgery is planned
Specific tests vary. Bring existing reports so unnecessary repetition can be avoided where possible.
Potential benefits
Why this option may be discussed.
No surgical incision
Usually a day-care treatment
Imaging-guided targeting
Can reduce the need for more invasive stone removal
All procedures have potential risks and may not achieve the same result for every patient. Alternatives, risks and expected outcomes should be discussed personally.
Recovery & follow-up
Plan the return to everyday life.
Stone fragments may pass over several days or weeks and can cause temporary discomfort. Follow-up confirms clearance. Seek urgent help for fever, uncontrolled pain or difficulty passing urine.
Contact your care team urgently if advised warning signs occur
These may include fever, worsening pain, heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty or inability to pass urine. Follow the discharge instructions given to you.
Procedure FAQs
Questions patients commonly ask.
How do I know whether Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is right for me?
Suitability depends on your diagnosis, test results, general health and treatment goals. A consultation is needed to compare this procedure with observation, medicine or other procedural options.
What should I bring to the consultation?
Bring relevant imaging, laboratory reports, discharge summaries, a medicine and allergy list, and details of previous surgery or treatment.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies by procedure and patient. Dr. Anand and the hospital team will explain the expected stay, activity limits, medicines, follow-up and warning signs for your individual plan.
Related procedures
More in renal stone treatment.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
A minimally invasive procedure designed to remove larger kidney stones through a small access point in the back.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS)
A flexible endoscope and laser are guided through the natural urinary passage into the kidney to treat stones without a kidney incision.
Take the next step
Let’s make your next decision feel clearer.
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