Lithotripsy: Non-Surgical Kidney Stone Treatment Evolves
Lithotripsy, a medical procedure for treating kidney stones, has evolved significantly over time. It uses high-energy shock waves to break up stones, making the process less invasive and more effective. However, it's crucial to understand the risks and preparations involved.
Kidney stones form when minerals and substances in urine crystallize. Lithotripsy is designed to tackle these stones, with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) being the most common method. This procedure, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour, doesn't require surgery and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
The development of lithotripsy began in the 19th century with minimal-invasive stone treatments. It advanced significantly about 40 years ago with the introduction of ESWL and ureterorenoscopy (URS), marking a shift towards non-invasive, technologically advanced methods. Today, lithotripsy techniques combine ballistic and laser methods for more individualized therapies.
Before the procedure, it's important to inform your doctor about any prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or supplements you're taking. Some people may need to stop taking certain drugs, such as aspirin or blood thinners, beforehand. After lithotripsy, stone debris is removed from the kidneys or ureter through urination.
While lithotripsy offers a non-invasive solution for kidney stones, it's not without risks. These include internal bleeding, infection, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and kidney failure. Despite these potential complications, lithotripsy remains a valuable tool in treating kidney stones, with advancements in the procedure continually improving its safety and effectiveness.
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