Final answer:
The medical term 'lithotripsy' is pronounced 'LITH-oh-trip-see', and is a noninvasive procedure using ultrasound pulses to fragment kidney stones, though it can damage kidneys. Alternatives include stent insertion or surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The proper pronunciation of the medical term lithotripsy is 'LITH-oh-trip-see'. In this procedure, high-intensity ultrasound pulses are used externally to break up kidney stones into pieces that are small enough to pass through the urinary tract more easily.
Although lithotripsy is a noninvasive treatment option, it can potentially cause damage to the kidneys. Alternatives to lithotripsy may include the insertion of a stent into the ureter to allow urine and stones to pass, or surgery to remove large stones directly.