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Kidney Stones - Other Treatment
If your pain is too great, the kidney stone is blocking the urinary system, or you also have an infection, your doctor will probably suggest medical treatment. Your options are:
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Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). ESWL uses shock waves that pass easily through the body but are
strong enough to break up a kidney stone. This is the most commonly used
medical procedure for treating kidney stones. See a picture of
ESWL
. -
Ureteroscopy. The
surgeon passes a very thin telescope tube (ureteroscope) up the
urinary tract to the stone's location, and then he or she uses instruments to
remove the stone or break it up for easier removal. Occasionally, you may need
a small, hollow tube (ureteral stent) placed in the
ureter to keep it open for a short time and drain
urine and any stone pieces. This procedure is often used for stones that have
moved from the kidney to the ureter. See a picture of
ureteroscopy.
The size of the stone, its location in the urinary tract, your overall health, and other factors are all considered in deciding which method to use when breaking up or removing a kidney stone.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
May 04, 2009
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
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