Lithotripsy

The doctor may also access the stone from your back into your kidney, through a procedure called percutaneous lithotripsy. Laser lithotripsy is usually used when the stone does not respond to extracorporeal shock wave treatment or when it is in a place that is difficult to access. It requires a hospital stay and carries a slightly greater risk of complications than extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy.

Lithotripsy is used to remove kidney, gallbladder, and other stones that have caused obstruction, infection, prolonged bleeding, or serious bleeding.

You will need to have routine blood and urine tests, X-rays, and possibly an electrocardiogram before the procedure. X-rays will help the doctor to determine if other treatment options or other treatments combined with lithotripsy are preferable because of the size, location, or number of stones. Your urine may also be tested to exclude an infection, which will have to be treated prior to lithotripsy.

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