Lithotripsy (ESWL)

Extra Corporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a procedure in which sound waves are transmitted through your body to pulverize a kidney stone.

1. You will be admitted to the outpatient area the day of your surgery. You will go home the same day. Plan at least 2-3 hours after the procedure.
2. The day of your procedure do not eat or drink anything. Do not chew gum or eat candy.
3. If you are on Coumadin , Aspirin, Ibuprophen, or other Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (or blood thinners) you will need to discontinue the medicine 7 days prior to your surgery unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
4. If you are on blood pressure or heart medication you may take it with a sip of water the morning of your surgery. Continue your routine medications as prescribed.
5. 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.
6. No eating or drinking after midnight the night before your surgery except for blood pressure or medications as mentioned above. No alcohol 24 hours prior to surgery. After midnight do not consume any solid foods.
7. You will be receiving anesthesia for this surgery. You will see an anesthesiologist who will discuss this with you prior to surgery. You will require a ride home.
8. We suggest you wear comfortable clothing.
9. The risks of this surgery include but are not limited to reactions to general anesthesia, bleeding and pain.

Recovering from Surgery – What to expect:

1. You will be discharged from 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.
2. You will receive a prescription for pain medication after your surgery. You will experience some pain and aching in your back for 1-7 days following the procedure. The pain and discomfort is normal after an ESWL. If the pain becomes severe please call the office.
3. You may be asked to strain your urine for fragments that should be brought to the clinic for analysis.
4. 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.
5. There are no dietary restrictions following the procedure. We encourage you to increase your fluid intake.

Activity:

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

Follow up:

Call our office to make an appointment 1-2 weeks after your surgery