Answer:
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a medical procedure used to treat kidney stones, a condition where solid mineral deposits form in the kidneys and can cause intense pain and discomfort. ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up kidney stones into smaller pieces, which can then pass out of the body naturally through the urinary system.
During an ESWL procedure, the patient lies on a table and is given local anesthesia or sedation to help them relax. The doctor uses a machine that generates shock waves to target the kidney stone, usually using ultrasound or X-ray to guide the positioning of the shock wave generator. The shock waves are delivered in short bursts, and the number and intensity of the shocks may vary depending on the size and location of the kidney stone.
The shock waves pass through the body tissues and are focused on the kidney stone, causing it to break into smaller fragments. The smaller pieces of the kidney stone can then be passed out of the body in the urine over the following days or weeks. The procedure usually takes around 30-60 minutes, and patients can often return to normal activities within a few days.
ESWL is a relatively safe and effective procedure for treating kidney stones. It is generally recommended for stones that are less than 2 cm in diameter, and it is usually not recommended for pregnant women or patients with bleeding disorders or certain medical conditions. ESWL is preferred over other invasive surgical procedures because it is non-invasive, has a shorter recovery time, and does not require general anesthesia. However, it may not be effective for larger stones or stones in certain locations, and it may require multiple sessions to completely break up the stone. Overall, ESWL is a useful tool for treating kidney stones and improving the quality of life for patients suffering from this condition.
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