What is ESWL?

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) uses focused sound waves to break kidney stones into tiny fragments that can pass naturally. There are no incisions or scopes. At Advanced Urology, we use the latest Dornier Delta III Pro lithotripter to deliver precise energy for excellent stone-free rates with maximum comfort.

Why ESWL is a Great Choice

  • Non-invasive: No incisions; no stents in most cases.
  • Pain-free: Performed under general anesthesia in our ASC.
  • Fast recovery: Most patients resume normal activities in a day or two.
  • Excellent outcomes: High clearance rates, especially for stones < 2 cm.
  • Advanced tech: Dornier Delta III Pro provides effective, targeted treatment.
  • Efficient: Typical treatment time is about 40 minutes.

Who is a Candidate?

  • Kidney or upper-ureter stones typically under 2 cm.
  • Favorable stone composition and location on imaging.
  • No contraindications such as pregnancy or certain bleeding disorders.

Your Advanced Urology specialist will review your imaging and medical history to confirm if ESWL is the best option for you.

Before Your ESWL

Pre-visit Checklist

  • Review imaging and medical history with your provider.
  • Complete any requested blood/urine tests.
  • Follow pre-anesthesia fasting instructions.

Medications

  • Ask about blood thinners or supplements that may need to be held.
  • Bring an updated medication list.

The Day of Your ESWL

  1. Arrival: Our ASC team welcomes you and prepares you for treatment.
  2. General anesthesia: You are fully asleep and comfortable.
  3. Targeting: Ultrasound/X-ray guidance aligns the Dornier Delta III Pro precisely to your stone.
  4. Fragmentation (~40 minutes): Focused shock waves break the stone into sand-like pieces.
  5. Recovery: Rest briefly in recovery, then go home the same day with clear instructions.

After the Procedure

What You May Notice

  • Mild back soreness or small amounts of blood in urine (usually temporary).
  • Passing of small stone fragments over days to weeks.

Follow-Up

  • Clinic visit to confirm stone clearance and kidney health.
  • Prevention plan to reduce future stone risk (hydration, diet guidance).

Why Choose Advanced Urology for ESWL?

  • State-of-the-art equipment: Dornier Delta III Pro lithotripter.
  • Pain-free experience: General anesthesia in our fully accredited ASCs.
  • No stent in most cases: Avoids the discomfort of stent placement.
  • Fast scheduling: Procedures often performed within days.
  • Insurance-friendly: In-network with most major plans.

Bottom Line

ESWL at Advanced Urology offers a safe, fast, and non-invasive solution for kidney stones — with outstanding outcomes using the Dornier Delta III Pro, no stent in most cases, and a pain-free experience under general anesthesia.