Lithotripsy is a method of treating kidney stones without an anaesthetic.
Ultrasound waves and x-rays are used to provide a precise image of your stone. Pulses of energy are then aimed at your stone, causing mini shock waves that break the stone into smaller pieces. These pieces can then be passed when you urinate.
Preparation
You will be given a date and time at which to attend your appointment. Full instructions such as starvation times will be also given. It is necessary for you to starve, as some patients require some sedation during the procedure.
For this reason, it is also necessary for someone to collect you from the centre and escort you home, and to have a responsible adult with you for 24 hours after the procedure. If you are not given any sedation, you should be fine on your own.
On the day
You should bring with you:
- A dressing gown and slippers
- Any medication you are taking
- Any private x-ray films you may have
Do not bring any valuables.
After you arrive, the first thing we will do is take an x-ray of your kidneys, if this has not already been done.
You will then be seen by your ‘named nurse’ and asked about your current and past medical health. Your pulse and blood pressure will be taken, and you will be asked to change into a gown and wait in the lounge area.
The doctor will decide on your treatment once your x-rays have been seen and will discuss this with you.
When it is your turn for treatment, the nurse will collect you and take you to the treatment room, where you will meet the other members of the team, who will explain all the procedures to you.
Following your lithotripsy, you return to the ward area and are given refreshments. We now ask that you drink plenty of fluids and pass urine before you are allowed to go home.
When you feel able, you can get dressed and let your escort know you are ready to leave. You will be given full instructions for your after-care before you go home.
At home
If you have not been given any sedation, then you may carry on as you normally would, following all the instructions given to you at the hospital.
If you have received sedation, you will be advised not to drive, operate machinery or sign any legal documents for 24 hours.
