ESWL stands for Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy
ESWL is the least invasive method of treating urolithiasis, which often allows to avoid surgery.
The Department of Urology of the University Hospital No. 2 in Bydgoszcz has the state-of-the-art PiezoLith 3000 device. Stones are targeted simultaneously by ultrasound and X-ray. This allows for breaking down stones along the entire length of the urinary tract, both in the kidneys and in ureters. A characteristic feature of the piezoelectric device for ESWL is the frequency of shock wave, which is modified to the extent allowing a virtually painless procedure. Patients do not require anesthesia, analgaesics and staying in hospital. They can come and go home on their own. The entire procedure takes about an hour.
The procedure is performed with the patient in the prone position so as to maximise the power of shock wave. Then the stone to be broken down is targeted by ultrasound and X-ray.
Indications for ESWL:
- calyceal lithiasis in the case of enlargement of stones or stones that obstruct the urine flow.
- stones in the renal pelvis (up to 2 cm in diameter)
- stones in the ureter
Contraindications:
- pregnancy
- obstruction in the urine flow below the stone (e.g. ureteral stricture or ureteropelvic junction obstruction)
- aortic aneurysm
- urinary tract infection
- blood coagulation disorders and taking anticoagulants (the drug should be changed before the scheduled ESWL after consultation with the doctor)
Registration by phone for the ESWL procedure: +48 52 3655 306