Kidney stone removal - Lithotripsy procedure
Join this channel and become an insider member.
Subscribe for free to see our next release.
Click the bell 🔔 to be notified about our new content.
#shorts
Understanding Lithotripsy: The Kidney Stone Removal Procedure
Kidney stones are a common medical condition that can cause severe discomfort and pain. Understanding the available treatment options is crucial if you're dealing with kidney stones. One of the most effective and non-invasive methods for kidney stone removal is lithotripsy. This article will explore lithotripsy, how it works, and what you can expect from the procedure.
What is Lithotripsy?
Lithotripsy is a medical procedure that uses shock waves or laser energy to break kidney stones into small, manageable pieces. These fragments can then be passed naturally through the urinary tract. The primary goal of lithotripsy is to offer a less invasive alternative to surgical removal of kidney stones, reducing recovery time and minimizing discomfort.
Types of Lithotripsy
There are two main types of lithotripsy:
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL):
This is the most common form of lithotripsy. It involves using shock waves generated outside the body to target and break up kidney stones.
The procedure is usually performed under sedation or light anesthesia, ensuring the patient remains comfortable.
Laser Lithotripsy:
This method involves inserting a thin, flexible ureteroscope into the urinary tract to visualize and break the stones using laser energy.
Laser lithotripsy is often used for stones in the lower urinary tract or when ESWL is ineffective.
How Does Lithotripsy Work?
The process of lithotripsy involves several key steps:
Preparation:
Before the procedure, your doctor will conduct a thorough examination, including imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds, to determine the kidney stones' size, location, and composition.
During the Procedure:
For ESWL, you'll lie on a unique table or in a water bath. The shock wave generator is positioned to focus on the kidney stone. Shock waves are emitted, passing through your body and breaking the stone into smaller pieces.
For laser lithotripsy, a ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra and bladder into the ureter. The laser fibre is then used to fragment the stone.
Post-Procedure:
After the procedure, you'll be monitored briefly before being allowed to go home. Pain medication and instructions on how to manage any discomfort will be provided.
Drinking plenty of water is essential to help flush out the stone fragments through your urine.
Benefits of Lithotripsy
Non-Invasive: ESWL doesn't require incisions, making it less invasive than traditional surgery.
Quick Recovery: Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days.
Effective: Lithotripsy has a high success rate for breaking up small to medium-sized stones.
Potential Risks and Complications
full article is available on the community wall of channel members
For more free resources, you can find us:
Pinterest: MedicalArtsOfficial
Facebook MedicalArtsOfficial
Instagram MedicalArtsOfficial
TikTok MedicalArts
#lithotripsy #renalstone
Keywords:
Kidney stone removal
lithotripsy procedure
This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only!!
Medical Arts Official, 2024
@MedicalArts