Lithotripsy (Kidney Stone Removal) Cost and Lithotripsy (Kidney Stone Removal) Procedures Information

Lithotripsy (Kidney Stone) Surgery Introduction

The most common method of Kidney Stone Surgery Removal involves sending the shock waves through padded cushions on the table. An older and less commonly used method involves the patient being placed in a tub of water, with shock waves sent through the water. This usually requires general anesthesia (asleep, no pain), but you may go home the same day. While the vast majority of kidney stones are treated with ESWL, not all stones can be treated this way. Sometimes a laser is used if ESWL is not effective or you cannot have ESWL for some reason. When a laser is used, the doctor must use an endoscope, which is a tube introduced into the body, via the urinary tract, to get close to the stone. In the case of large kidney stones, the doctor may also access the stones from your back into your kidney, through a procedure called percutaneous lithotripsy. This method requires a hospital stay. Your doctor will decide which type of surgery is best for you.

Kidney Stone Surgery Patient Preparation

A complete physical examination is done, along with diagnostic tests and a test to determine the number, location, and size of the stone or stones. This test is called an intravenous pyelogram, or IVP. It is particularly important to inform the physician of all medications or vitamins taken regularly or if you are pregnant (or think you might be pregnant) or if you have heart, lung or other medical conditions that may need special attention, and, finally, if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting. You will be given instructions in advance that will outline what you should and should not do in preparation for the surgery; be sure to read and follow those instructions. You will be asked to fast for eight hours before the procedure, generally after midnight. Arrangements may need to be made for transportation after the surgery is complete. If you are given a prescription for pain medication, have it filled prior to surgery.

What to expect during and after Kidney Stone Surgery (Lithotripsy)

The procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis and takes from 45 minutes to 1 hour. You will lie down on an exam table on top of a soft, water-filled cushion. Since lithotripsy can cause mild discomfort, you will be given a mild sedative or painkiller before the procedure starts. The stones are located using x-ray or ultrasound equipment and then high-energy shock waves, also called sound waves, pass through your body to the area on the kidney stones. When this starts, you may feel a tapping sensation on your skin. The procedure is continued until the waves break the stones into tiny pieces. A stent may be placed in the ureter to help the stone fragments (gravel) pass.

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you will most often be discharged to your home. If you had percutaneous lithotripsy, you will need to stay in the hospital overnight. Before being discharged, you will be given instructions about care for your incisions, limits on activities and what you should do to aid your recovery. Extra fluids will be stressed. Most patients have a lot of blood in their urine after the ESWL procedure. This is normal and should clear after several days to a week or so. Your physician may give you additional or alternate instructions, depending on your particular situation. Notify your physician to report any of the following: fever and/or chills; burning with urination; urinary frequency or urgency; or lower back pain.