Final answer:
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) disintegrates stones by introducing shock waves into the body through the medium of water. High-intensity ultrasound pulses are applied externally to break down kidney stones into smaller pieces. Shock waves are generated using ultrasound sources.
Step-by-step explanation:
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) disintegrates stones by introducing shock waves into the body through the medium of water. In this medical procedure, high-intensity ultrasound pulses are applied externally to break down kidney stones into smaller pieces that can easily pass through the urinary tract. The shock waves are generated using ultrasound sources.