Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

At Eastern & Western Hospital, we offer advanced Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL) for the safe and effective treatment of kidney and ureteric stones — without surgery.
Using modern shockwave technology, we break kidney stones into small fragments that can pass naturally through the urinary tract, helping patients avoid invasive procedures and long recovery times.

What Is Shockwave Lithotripsy?

Shockwave Lithotripsy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL), is a non-invasive procedure used to treat kidney stones and certain ureteric stones.
High-energy acoustic shockwaves are delivered from outside the body and precisely focused on the stone. These shockwaves break the stone into tiny pieces, which are then passed naturally in the urine.

Non-Surgical

A completely non-invasive treatment that requires no incisions, no anesthesia, and no downtime — allowing you to return to daily activities immediately.

Quick recovery time

Most patients resume normal daily activities within 24–48 hours after the procedure. With minimal discomfort and no surgical wound, recovery is smooth and fast.

Day-care procedure

Shockwave Lithotripsy is performed as an outpatient treatment, meaning you can return home the same day without the need for hospital admission.

Conditions We Treat

Shockwave Lithotripsy is an effective treatment option for carefully selected patients with urinary tract stones. It is commonly used for:

Kidney Stones
Stones located within the kidney that are causing pain, bleeding, recurrent infections, or risk of obstruction. Shockwaves break the stones into smaller fragments that can pass naturally through the urinary system.

Upper Ureteric Stones
Stones lodged in the upper part of the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder). These stones often cause severe flank pain and may require intervention if they do not pass on their own.

Stones Causing Pain or Urinary Obstruction
When a stone blocks urine flow, it can lead to intense pain, swelling of the kidney (hydronephrosis), or infection. Lithotripsy helps relieve obstruction by fragmenting the stone.

Stones That Are Not Passing Naturally
Small stones sometimes pass spontaneously. However, if a stone remains stuck despite hydration and medication, shockwave lithotripsy offers a non-surgical solution to facilitate passage.

Benefits of Shockwave Lithotripsy

Non-surgical treatment
Minimally invasive
Short procedure time
Minimal recovery period
Reduced hospital stay
Lower risk compared to open surgery
Performed as a day procedure in most cases
Hip bursitis
Lower back pain
Muscle trigger points

Shockwave Lithotripter

Our state-of-the-art ESWL machine delivers focused shockwaves with precision, targeting kidney and ureteric stones safely and effectively. Completely non-invasive, it breaks stones into tiny fragments that pass naturally, all without surgery or incisions.
Designed for patient comfort and efficiency, each session is quick, usually lasting less than an hour, allowing for a smooth, same-day treatment experience.

What to Expect!

Before the Procedure

You will undergo a medical assessment, including imaging (ultrasound or X-ray) to locate the stone.
Your doctor will review your medical history, medications, and any allergies.
You may be asked to fast for a few hours prior to the procedure, depending on sedation requirements.
Pain relief or light sedation is usually administered to ensure comfort during treatment.

During the Procedure

You will lie on a specialized treatment table, and the stone will be precisely located using imaging guidance.
High-energy shockwaves are directed at the stone, breaking it into smaller fragments.
The procedure typically lasts 30–60 minutes.
You may feel mild tapping or vibrations, but the process is generally well tolerated.

After the Procedure

Most patients are discharged the same day and can resume normal activities within 24–48 hours.
You may experience mild flank or abdominal discomfort as stone fragments pass.
Blood in urine is common for a few days.
Your doctor may recommend pain relief, hydration, and follow-up imaging to track stone passage.
Straining urine through a fine mesh may be advised to catch stone fragments for analysis.

Recovery Tips

Drink plenty of water to help flush out fragments.
Avoid strenuous activity for a day or two, if advised by your doctor.
Follow all post-procedure instructions to prevent complications and support stone clearance.

Shockwave Lithotripsy is safe, minimally invasive, and effective, allowing patients to return to daily life quickly while avoiding surgery.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment for kidney and ureteric stones. However, it is not suitable for everyone.

Who May Not Be Suitable for ESWL?
ESWL may not be recommended in the following cases:

Very large or complex stones – Stones larger than 2 cm or very hard stones may require surgical intervention.
Certain anatomical conditions – Abnormal kidney or urinary tract anatomy that prevents proper targeting of shockwaves.
Pregnancy – The procedure is not performed during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus.
Active urinary tract infection – Treatment may worsen infection; infection must be treated first.
Severe obesity – In some cases, body size may limit the accuracy of shockwave targeting.

Our doctors will perform a thorough medical evaluation, including imaging and lab tests, to determine if ESWL is the safest and most effective option for your condition.

Safety & Expertise

At Eastern & Western Hospital, shockwave lithotripsy is performed
by experienced urologists using advanced medical equipment in a
fully equipped hospital setting.

Patient safety

Accurate stone
targeting 

Pain Management

Comprehensive
follow-up care

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the procedure take?

Each session typically lasts 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the stone.

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients experience only mild discomfort or tapping sensations during treatment. Light sedation or pain relief is usually provided for comfort.

Will I need to stay in the hospital?

No. ESWL is usually a day-care procedure, allowing you to return home the same day.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Side effects are generally minor and temporary. They may include mild flank pain, blood in urine, or discomfort while passing fragments. Serious complications are rare.