Doctors for Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL) in Delhi

In ESWL (Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy), sound waves are used to break up stones in the urinary tract, such as in the kidney, ureter, and bladder. It is a treatment that does not include any invasive procedures. After being broken up, the stones are able to leave the body in their natural course. ESWL can be an effective treatment for stones that are too large or too numerous to be passed through the urethra.

There are several types of ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) machines, which may vary in their shock wave generation, delivery, and imaging capabilities. Some common types of ESWL include:

• Electromagnetic ESWL: This type of ESWL uses an electromagnetic coil to generate shock waves, which are then focused and delivered to the kidney stone using an X-ray or ultrasound imaging.
• Piezoelectric ESWL: This type of ESWL uses a crystal to generate shock waves, which are then focused and delivered to the kidney stone using an X-ray or ultrasound imaging.
• Electrohydraulic ESWL: This type of ESWL uses an electrode to generate shock waves in a water medium, which are then focused and delivered to the kidney stone using an X-ray or ultrasound imaging.
• Pneumatic ESWL: This type of ESWL uses compressed air to generate shock waves, which are then focused and delivered to the kidney stone using an X-ray or ultrasound imaging.

Before undergoing ESWL surgery, there are several diagnoses and tests that need to be done to determine the size and location of the kidney stones and to ensure that the patient is a good candidate for the procedure. They may include the following:

• X-rays: A form of imaging test known as an X-ray employs a very low dose of radiation to produce images of the organs and structures found inside the body. X-Rays are used to evaluate bones, organs, and other tissues. They can be used to diagnose many conditions, and are an important imaging tool to evaluate before ESWL surgery.
• MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI for short, is a form of imaging test that provides comprehensive photographs of the body by utilizing a powerful magnetic field in conjunction with radio waves. MRI is particularly useful for evaluating soft tissues and can be used to identify tumors or diseases that are difficult to see with other imaging methods. It is important for doctors to use MRIs for ESWL surgery to make sure that the procedure is done safely.
• CT Scan: CT scans use X-rays to produce 3D pictures of the inside of the body. A CT scan is frequently the imaging test of choice for ESWL surgery because of its versatility and ability to diagnose a wide range of problems.
• CBC: A complete blood count (CBC) is a medical examination that analyzes the concentration of red and white blood cells, platelets, and various other components present in the bloodstream. The results of a CBC can help to identify underlying medical conditions that may interfere with the success of ESWL surgery and should be tested before the procedure.
• LFT/KFT:The levels of specific proteins and enzymes in the blood are measured by LFTs (Liver Function Tests) and KFTs (Kidney Function Tets), which can be used to evaluate how well the liver and kidneys are working. These blood tests are important in determining if ESWL surgery can be safely performed.
• Urine R/M: Urine R/M, or "urine routine and microscopic," is a urine test used to check for any signs of infection or kidney stones, which can be a potential complication of ESWL surgery.
• Lipid Profile: A blood test called a lipid profile is performed to assess triglyceride, cholesterol, and other heart-health related chemical levels. This test is important before ESWL surgery to make sure the patient’s heart is in good condition for the procedure.
• Thyroid Profile Test: A thyroid profile test is a blood test used to evaluate the functioning of the thyroid gland. Abnormal thyroid levels can lead to complications during ESWL surgery, so it is important to screen for such levels beforehand.

Here's how ESWL surgery is typically done:

• Preparation: The patient is given a mild sedative to help them relax. An ultrasound or X-ray machine is used to locate the stone and determine the best position for delivering the shockwaves.
• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is given to numb the area being operated on. In some situations, general anesthesia may be administered to keep the patient asleep during the procedure.
• Shockwave Delivery: A machine delivers high-energy sound waves to the specific location of the kidney stone.The stone is the target of the shockwaves, which break it into smaller fragments.
• Breakdown of Stone: The sound waves cause the stone to break down into smaller fragments. During this process, the patient can experience a tapping feeling or minor discomfort.
• Removal of Fragments: The smaller stone fragments are either passed out of the body naturally or removed with a small instrument. Ultrasound or X-rays are used to detect the fragments.
• Closure: When the procedure is complete, the incision is closed with sutures or adhesive strips. A dressing may be used to cover the area.
• Postoperative Care: The patient is closely monitored for any complications, and appropriate post-operative care and medications are prescribed to deal with any discomfort. Patients are typically able to return home the very day of their procedure and can quickly get back to their normal routines.

ESWL surgery is one of the most preferred treatments for kidney stones. Some of the important benefits of ESWL surgery are as follows:

• Non-Invasive: The ESWL method is a noninvasive method that doesn't call for any incisions or protracted hospital stays. It is a generally risk-free technique that does not involve any discomfort and can be carried out in an outpatient setting.
• Quick Recovery: After an ESWL procedure, the patient can typically return to their regular activities in a few days after only a brief hospital stay.
• Minimal Side Effects: The dangers and adverse effects of ESWL surgery are quite low. As a result, it is a popular method of treatment of kidney stones.
• Low Cost: ESWL surgery is much cheaper than other treatments for kidney stones, making it a more affordable option.
• Improved Quality of Life: ESWL surgery reduces kidney stone pain and improves the quality of life.

It is a widely used procedure; however, there can be some side effects associated with it. They are as follows:

• Urinary tract infections: Infection of the urinary tract is one of the most commonly reported side effects of ESWL, occurring in up to 10% of the cases. It rarely requires antibiotics and generally, resolves spontaneously.
• Fever: In rare cases, fever could be a side-effect, which is usually mild and resolves with over-the-counter medications.
• Blood in urine: ESWL often causes mild haematuria, or blood in the urine, which usually resolves on its own.
• Damage to surrounding tissue: The stone's sound waves may injure nearby organs. This results in bruising and swelling of the kidney, ureter, or other tissue.
• Allergic reactions: Moreover, the contrast agent that is utilized in ESWL may trigger an allergic reaction in certain individuals. The most common symptoms are itching rash, and breathing difficulties.
• Perforation: In rare cases, the pressure from the shock waves may cause a small hole in the kidney, referred to as a perforation. This is a critical medical situation that has to be attended to right away.

The recovery time after ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) surgery can vary depending on the individual's overall health, the size and location of the kidney stone, and the number of stones treated. Patients can typically resume their normal activities between a few days and a week after the process and can usually leave the hospital the same day. However, the passing of the stone fragments and the subsequent resolution of all symptoms may take many weeks.

After undergoing ESWL surgery, it is important to follow a few recovery steps in order to heal properly. The following tips will facilitate your recovery:

• Drink Plenty of Water: It is essential to drink plenty of fluids to help break up and pass the remaining stone fragments. Increasing water consumption helps the body eliminate contaminants.
• Exercise: Low-impact exercises and stretching activities can help improve circulation, reduce stress and build core strength.
• Follow Medication Instructions: Pain relievers and antibiotics may be prescribed. Make sure you strictly adhere to the advice that your doctor has given you.
• Get Plenty of Rest: Getting ample rest allows the body to heal and rebuild muscles and tissues from the surgery.
• Avoid Lifting Heavy Objects: Avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities can help keep the body from being strained further.
• Follow a Healthy Diet: Consuming a diet that is well-balanced and contains a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and proteins that are lean will help encourage a good recovery.