We use cookies to so our web site can function correctly. By Clicking "OK" or by clicking into any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. To find out more visit the cookies section of our privacy policy.

Privacy Statement

A cookie is a small file which asks permission to be placed on your computer's hard drive. Once you agree, the file is added and the cookie helps analyse web traffic or lets you know when you visit a particular site. Cookies allow web applications to respond to you as an individual. The web application can tailor its operations to your needs, likes and dislikes by gathering and remembering information about your preferences.

We use traffic log cookies to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about web page traffic and improve our website in order to tailor it to customer needs. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes.

Overall, cookies help us provide you with a better website, by enabling us to monitor which pages you find useful and which you do not. A cookie in no way gives us access to your computer or any information about you, other than the data you choose to share with us.

Cookie group mandatory

(Req)
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms.
You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not then work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

These cookies are required

Functional

These cookies allow us to adtertise our products to you and allow us to pass this information on to our trusted third parties so that they can advertise our products to you on our behalf
All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. No personal inforation is shared to third parties. Any personal information collected while using our website could be used for direct marketing from HCA only

Marketing

These cookies allow us to advertise our products to you and allow us to pass this information on to our trusted third parties so that they can advertise our products to you on our behalf
All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. No personal inforation is shared to third parties. Any personal information collected while using our website could be used for direct marketing from HCA only

Performance Cookies

These cookies allow us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site.  All information collect is annonomas unless you provide personal information to us.
If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to monitor its performance.
Menu
Close
icon-searchsearch

Type to search, press ESC to leave

icon-close
Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Keeping patients and staff safe ▶

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)

Sound wave treatment for kidney stones

A non-invasive treatment used to break up kidney stones

Request an appointment

About lithotripsy

If you have kidney stones, this non-invasive treatment can help. It uses a high-intensity sound wave to break the stones up into smaller pieces, so you can pass them naturally without pain or discomfort.

Need to know

  • What happens icon plus

    The technician will ask you to lie on your side, giving you a water-filled cushion for support. You may also be given a simple analgesia (medication to help relieve pain). After using an X-ray to locate the stone, they will then use a machine called a lithotripter to target it with repeated sound waves. These sound waves will break the stone into small pieces (less than 2mm in size), making them easier to pass. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is an effective treatment for 80% of kidney stones.

  • How to prepare icon plus

    Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have.

  • Afterwards icon plus

    You should be able to go home the same day as your surgery. Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise.
Consultant in theatres

Our consultants

We're proud to work with leading experts across a range of medical fields, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our facilities

From complex urological surgery to test and urology procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Request an appointment

We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

020 7079 4344
Book an appointment
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
back to top