Non-Invasive Treatment

ESWL Lithotripsy

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy — shock waves delivered from outside the body to shatter kidney stones without any cuts or surgery.

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Non-Invasive

No incisions, no anaesthesia required for most patients.

45–60 Min

Typical session lasts under an hour. Outpatient procedure.

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Walk Out within 24 Hours

Resume light activities within 24–48 hours.

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Repeat Sessions

Multiple sessions may be needed for larger stones.

How ESWL Works

A lithotripter machine directs high-energy shock waves through the skin to the exact location of the stone. These waves cause the stone to vibrate and eventually fragment into small pieces that pass through urine.

Imaging guidance (ultrasound or fluoroscopy) is used to precisely target the stone without any incisions.

Best for stones smaller than 10mm
Upper and middle ureter stones
Stones in the renal pelvis
Patients who cannot undergo surgery

⚠️ When ESWL Might Not Work

  • Stones larger than 10–15mm
  • Hard stones (calcium oxalate monohydrate)
  • Lower pole kidney stones
  • Stones close to blood vessels or aorta
  • Pregnancy (absolute contraindication)

ESWL vs RIRS — Which Is Better for You?

RIRS is generally preferred for stones above 10mm or failed ESWL. However, ESWL requires no anaesthesia and is ideal for smaller stones in certain positions.

Use Our Symptom Checker

Is ESWL Right for Your Stone?

Dr. Deepanshu Gupta will review your CT KUB and determine the best treatment — ESWL, RIRS or PCNL — for your specific case.

Get Expert Opinion →