ESWL Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer cutting-edge solutions for the treatment of kidney stones, including Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL). Our team is led by some of the best urologists in Dubai, who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring the best outcomes for our patients. ESWL is a non-invasive, highly effective treatment option for kidney stones that utilizes shock waves to break down stones into smaller fragments, allowing them to pass through the urinary tract more easily. This modern technique has become a preferred choice for many patients due to its minimal discomfort and quick recovery time.
- About ESWL
- Procedure
- Benefits
About ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy)
ESWL is a non-surgical treatment designed to treat kidney stones without the need for incisions or invasive procedures. It employs focused sound waves, or shock waves, to fragment kidney stones into tiny pieces, which can then be naturally passed out of the body through urine. This treatment is particularly effective for stones that are smaller than 2 cm in diameter and are located in the kidney or upper part of the ureter.
The treatment is suitable for a wide range of patients, especially those who prefer a non-surgical approach. It is known for its safety, efficacy, and the convenience of being performed as an outpatient procedure, which allows patients to return to their normal activities soon after treatment.
Procedure
- Preparation: The ESWL procedure typically begins with a consultation with a urologist at Emirates Hospitals Group. During this consultation, the patient’s medical history is reviewed, and imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, are performed to determine the size, location, and composition of the kidney stones. Based on this information, the urologist decides if ESWL is the most suitable treatment option.
- Anesthesia: On the day of the procedure, the patient is positioned on a water-filled cushion or table. The patient is usually given mild sedation or anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the patient’s overall health and preferences, as well as the location and size of the kidney stones.
- Shock Wave Generation: High-energy shock waves are then generated by a special machine called a lithotripter. These shock waves are precisely focused on the kidney stones. As the waves pass through the body, they break the stones into smaller fragments. The process usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and number of stones being treated.
- Post-Procedure Care: After the procedure, patients are monitored for a short period before being allowed to go home. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a day or two. It is common to experience some discomfort, blood in the urine, or mild bruising at the treatment site, but these side effects are usually temporary.
Benefits of ESWL
- Non-Invasive Approach: One of the main benefits of ESWL is that it is a non-invasive treatment, meaning there are no cuts or incisions. This significantly reduces the risk of infection and complications associated with surgical procedures.
- Quick Recovery: ESWL is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day and resume normal activities within a day or two. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a treatment option with minimal downtime.
- High Success Rate: ESWL is effective in treating most types of kidney stones, especially those smaller than 2 cm. The success rate of the procedure largely depends on the size, location, and type of the kidney stone, with smaller stones having higher success rates.
- Minimal Discomfort: The procedure is generally well-tolerated by patients, with only mild discomfort during and after the treatment. The use of anesthesia ensures that patients remain comfortable throughout the process.
- Repeatable Procedure: If necessary, ESWL can be repeated multiple times to achieve the desired result, making it a versatile option for treating kidney stones that are resistant to initial treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) is a non-invasive procedure that uses focused sound waves to break kidney stones into smaller fragments. These fragments can then be naturally passed out of the body through urine.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the procedure. Anesthesia or sedation is usually administered to ensure comfort, and any post-procedure pain can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and number of kidney stones being treated. Most patients can go home the same day.
Common side effects may include mild pain or discomfort, bruising, or blood in the urine. These are generally temporary and resolve within a few days. Your doctor will provide instructions on managing any discomfort.
ESWL is most effective for stones smaller than 2 cm located in the kidney or upper part of the ureter. It may not be suitable for very large stones, certain stone compositions, or stones located in certain areas. Your urologist will determine if ESWL is the best option for you.
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