Page 2 - Shock Wave Lithotripsy for Kidney Stones

Shock wave lithotripsy for kidney stones

Information regarding your stone problem and when they are comfortable, usually within a day or
general health will be collected by a doctor or nurse. two of their SWL treatment.
An X-ray may be taken if recent imaging studies
are not available. An intravenous line will be started You should see a urologist within a few weeks after your
to administer a sedative to keep you relaxed and treatment to determine how well it worked. An x-ray
painkilling medication if required. should be obtained immediately prior to that follow-up
visit.
You will be positioned comfortably on the lithotripsy
machine after which the stone will be targeted with
X-rays or ultrasound. A water-filled cushion will be Risks of shock wave lithotripsy
pressed between the shock wave generator and the Heavy bleeding is rare after SWL. Internal bruising in or
body to conduct the shock waves. It is important to lie around the treated kidney is occasionally seen. Fever,
still during your treatment so that the shock waves can chills or shakes after SWL may indicate infection.
be targeted accurately on the stone. Medical attention should be sought promptly so that
During the procedure you will hear a clicking sound treatment can be provided if necessary. Occasionally,
and feel a tapping sensation as each shock wave blockage of a ureter with stone fragments after SWL
enters the body. Shock waves are generated over 30 will require additional treatment, including surgery.
– 60 minutes, until the stone is adequately fragmented Prolonged pain may indicate blockage and if you
or a maximum number of shocks has been delivered. have severe pain that is not getting better after taking
pain pills, seek medical attention.
You will be monitored for at least one hour to ensure
that you are comfortable enough to go home with
an accompanying person. You may receive a Your SWL treatment has been scheduled for:
prescription for pain killers and instructions regarding a ______________________________________ (time)
follow-up appointment with your doctor within a few
weeks. on ___________________________________ (date)
Long distance travel is inadvisable immediately after at __________________________________________
SWL. If you live far from the treating hospital, it is best
to spend the night after treatment in that city so that ___________________________________ (location)
any early problems can be addressed there. You
should be able to return home the next day. Checklist of items required for SWL:

After your treatment 1. Bring
all recent x-rays with you or ensure that they
You may pass stone fragments for a few weeks after have been sent ahead by your doctor
SWL. Many patients treated with SWL are stone free
by three months after their treatment. There may be laboratory test results
pain and mild bruising of the skin where the shock a list of your medications
waves entered the body. Aching back or flank pain 2. Advise ahead if you
may accompany the passage of stone fragments,
particularly in the first few days. Use your pain killers are pregnant
as needed. Mild pain can often be controlled with
acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol™) or ibuprofen (e.g. have a heart pacemaker
Advil™). 3. Inquire about instructions for fasting or diet
It is not unusual to see blood in the urine for up to one restriction before your treatment.
week. Clearing of blood and flushing stone fragments 4. Inquire about the use of medication, especially
will be facilitated by drinking at least two litres of fluid blood thinners, aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs.
every day for the first few weeks. Most people are
able to return to work and resume their usual activities 5. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home.

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The information in the publication is not intended to convey medical advice or to substitute for direct consultation with a qualified medical
practitioner. The Canadian Urological Association disclaims all liability and legal responsibility howsoever caused, including negligence, for the
information contained in or referenced by this brochure. cua.org 39E-SWLE-06-10
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