What is Shockwave Lithotripsy in Delhi?

by Dr Rahul MD

Shockwave lithotripsy also called as extracorporeal Shockwave lithotripsy, is a treatment in which Shockwaves are used to break down stones present in the urinary tract. The stones due to Shockwaves are broken down in smaller pieces, these pieces pass by the urinary tract through urination. It is an outpatient, non-surgical and a non-invasive procedure. The treatment is best for stones that are less than 2 cm in diameter.

A doctor recommends Shockwave lithotripsy if a patient feels pain in the urinary tract area. The urologist on the basis of urine tests and CT scans identifies for the presence of stones in the urinary tract and accordingly advises the treatment.

It is a 30-90 minutes treatment and has following modifications:

· Endoscopic lithotripsy: in this method an endoscope or a cystoscope is used to target the stones.

· Percutaneous lithotripsy: used for stones that have a diameter of more than 20 cm, in this a small incision is made to insert the probe.

· Laser lithotripsy: in this method lasers are directly targeted on the stones present in the urinary tract.

Benefits of lithotripsy treatment in Delhi

The treatment is beneficial for maximum kidney stone sufferers because:

· It is a non-invasive technique.

· It is not a time consuming method.

· Recovery time is less.

· Minimum blood loss.

Minor risks associated with the treatment

Since it is a medical treatment some patients may feel the following discomfort:

· Injuries in skin and the underlying tissues.

· Pain during urination, this generally lasts for minimum time and vanishes soon.

· Infections.

· In-complete stone fragmentation.

Shockwave lithotripsy is a good treatment for patients:

· Whose stones can be clearly seen on an x-ray.

· Stones that are less than 20 cm in diameter.

· Stones in urethra that are less than 10 cm in diameter.

The treatment is not a good option:

· For stones that cannot be seen on an X-ray.

· Patients who are taking blood thinners.

· Those who are pregnant.

· Patients who have larger stones.

The treatment is available everywhere, in North India one can easily approach New Delhi the capital of India as it has best hospitals in the country. Some benefits for approaching Delhi for Shockwave lithotripsy are:

· The hospitals in the city are equipped with best machines.

· The hospitals are backed with skilled and experienced doctors.

· Most of the hospitals offer packages that helps the patient in managing their budget.

· The hospitals have collaboration with many insurance companies that also help patients manage their medical budgets.