Kidney stones can be an excruciating experience, causing severe pain and discomfort. Fortunately, medical advancements have brought about various treatment options, one of which is lithotripsy. In this blog, we will delve into the meaning, cost, and procedure of lithotripsy, an increasingly popular method for treating kidney stones in India.

One of the most appealing aspects of lithotripsy in India is its cost-effectiveness. Compared to many other countries, the cost of lithotripsy in India is significantly lower, making it a popular destination for medical tourists seeking kidney stone treatment. The lithotripsy cost can vary depending on factors like the size & location of the stone, the choice of hospital, and the region in India. However, on average, the cost of lithotripsy in India is far more budget-friendly compared to Western nations, without compromising on the quality of care.

In this blog, we will explore the various aspects of lithotripsy in India, providing a comprehensive understanding of this treatment option. Whether you are considering lithotripsy for kidney stone treatment or simply want to learn more about medical procedures in India, read on to gain insights into the world of lithotripsy and how it can offer a cost-effective, non-invasive solution to the discomfort caused by kidney stones.

Lithotripsy Cost In India

Lithotripsy Meaning

The average lithotripsy cost in India ranges from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 80,000 per session. However, this is only an approximate figure and may vary from hospital to hospital and city to city. To get an accurate estimate of lithotripsy cost in India, it is advisable to consult a qualified urologist who can assess your condition and recommend the best treatment option for you.

Factors Affecting The Lithotripsy Cost In India

The cost of lithotripsy in India can vary significantly depending on several factors. Lithotripsy is a medical process that breaks down kidney stones or other stones in the urinary tract using shock waves. The factors that can affect the cost of lithotripsy in India include:

1. Hospital or Clinic: The choice of a medical facility can have a substantial impact on the cost. High-end private hospitals in major cities will likely charge more than smaller clinics or government hospitals.

2. Location: The cost of healthcare services can vary greatly from one city or region to another in India. For instance, treatment in metropolitan areas may be more expensive than in rural areas.

3. Type of Lithotripsy: There are different types of lithotripsy procedures, such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) and intracorporeal lithotripsy (using lasers or other devices). The specific type of procedure used can affect the cost.

4. Size and Location of the Stone: The number, size, and location of the stones in the urinary tract can impact the complexity of the procedure. More complicated cases may require more resources and, therefore, be more expensive.

5. Consultation and Pre-operative Costs: Costs related to consultations, pre-operative tests, and evaluations are additional expenses to consider.

6. Post-Operative Care: The cost of post-operative care, including hospitalization or outpatient care, medications, and follow-up appointments, can add to the overall expense.

7. Surgeon’s Fees: The experience and reputation of the surgeon or urologist performing the lithotripsy can influence the cost.

8. Additional Services and Facilities: Some facilities offer additional services, such as private rooms, specialized nursing care, or other amenities, which can increase the overall cost.

9.  Medical Technology: The quality and sophistication of medical equipment and technology used in the lithotripsy procedure can impact the cost.

It’s important to consult with healthcare providers and hospitals directly to get accurate cost estimates for your specific situation. 

Lithotripsy Meaning

Lithotripsy is a medical procedure used to treat certain types of kidney and urinary tract stones, particularly kidney stones and ureteral stones. The term “lithotripsy” is derived from two Greek words: “lithos,” meaning “stone,” and “tripsis,” meaning “friction” or “crushing.” Therefore, lithotripsy means “stone crushing.”

The primary goal of lithotripsy is to break down kidney or urinary stones into smaller fragments to be more easily passed out of the body through urine or removed through minimally invasive techniques. This is typically done without the need for surgical incisions.

There are different lithotripsy methods, with the most common one being extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). ESWL involves using focused shock waves generated outside the body to target and break the stones into smaller pieces. The patient usually lies on a treatment table, and a machine delivers these shock waves to the area where the stone is located.

Other types of lithotripsy methods include laser lithotripsy, which uses laser energy to break up stones, and intracorporeal lithotripsy, where a device is inserted into the urinary tract to directly fragment the stones.

Lithotripsy is considered a non-invasive or minimally invasive procedure, and it can be a highly effective treatment for smaller kidney and urinary stones. The choice of lithotripsy method depends on the size, location, & composition of the stones, as well as the patient’s overall health and the physician’s recommendation. It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for kidney or urinary stones.

Lithotripsy Procedure

There are several types of lithotripsy procedures, but the most common one is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Now, we will try to understand the ESWL procedure in detail:

1. Patient Preparation:

   – Before the procedure, the patient may undergo imaging tests, like ultrasound or a CT scan, to locate the precise location, size, and number of stones in the urinary tract.

   – The patient may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure, and they might be asked to stop taking blood-thinning medications to reduce the risk of bleeding.

2. Positioning:

   – The patient is typically asked to lie on a water-filled cushion or a special bed that helps transmit shock waves to the stone effectively.

3. Anesthesia:

   – ESWL is generally performed with the patient under either local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s comfort and the size of the stones.

4. Targeting the Stone:

   – An X-ray or ultrasound machine is used to locate the stone precisely. A gel or water-based coupling medium is applied to the patient’s skin, which helps transmit the shock waves and ensures proper contact with the lithotripsy device.

5. Shock Wave Generation:

   – The lithotripter machine generates shock waves, which are high-energy sound waves. These waves are focused on the stone. The patient might hear a loud banging noise during this process.

6. Stone Fragmentation:

   – The shock waves travel through the skin & body tissues until they reach the stone. When they hit the stone, they cause it to break into smaller pieces, like grains of sand. This process is not usually painful, as the anesthesia takes care of any discomfort.

7. Monitoring:

   – Throughout the procedure, the medical team monitors the patient’s vital signs and ensures the shock waves are correctly targeted.

8. Post-Procedure Imaging:

   – After the stone has been effectively fragmented, post-procedure imaging (usually an X-ray or ultrasound) may be performed to confirm that the stone has been broken into small fragments. If necessary, additional shock waves can be administered.

9. Recovery:

   – The patient can usually go home on the same day or shortly after the procedure.

   – Pain medication might be prescribed to manage any discomfort or pain, and the patient might be prescribed to drink plenty of water to help flush out the stone fragments.

   – Patients are often encouraged to strain their urine to collect any stone fragments for analysis.

10. Follow-up:

   – The patient will likely have a follow-up appointment to check for any residual stones and to monitor their progress.

It’s important to note that not all kidney stones are suitable for lithotripsy. The procedure is most effective for smaller stones and may not be recommended for very large or complex stones. The specific approach may differ depending on the patient’s condition and the medical facility’s equipment and expertise. In some cases, other stone removal methods, such as ureteroscopy or percutaneous nephrolithotomy, may be necessary.

Lithotripsy Side Effects

While lithotripsy is generally considered safe and effective, there can be side effects associated with the procedure. Common side effects include:

1. Pain and Discomfort: Many patients experience discomfort or pain in the treated area following lithotripsy. This pain can vary from mild to serious and usually subsides within a few days. Your medical provider may prescribe pain medication to manage this discomfort.

2. Bruising and Swelling: Some bruising and swelling in the treatment area are common side effects of lithotripsy. This is usually temporary and should resolve on its own.

3. Blood in Urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is a common side effect of lithotripsy. This may last for a few days and is usually not a cause for concern. However, if the bleeding is excessive or persists, you should contact your healthcare provider.

4. Fragment Passage: After lithotripsy, you may pass stone fragments in your urine. This is a desired outcome of the procedure, but it can be associated with discomfort and, occasionally, pain as these fragments are eliminated from the body.

5. Infection: There is a small risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI) following lithotripsy. Signs of a UTI may include fever, pain during urination, and increased urinary frequency. If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider for treatment.

6. Kidney Injury: In rare cases, lithotripsy may cause injury to the kidney or other nearby structures. Your healthcare provider will take precautions to minimize this risk.

7. Passing Larger Stone Fragments: Sometimes, larger stone fragments may not pass easily and require additional procedures, such as a stent placement or another lithotripsy session.

8. Serious Complications: Although rare, serious complications such as damage to nearby organs, infection, or internal bleeding can occur. It’s essential to discuss the potential risks & benefits of lithotripsy with your healthcare provider before the procedure.

It’s important to note that lithotripsy is generally considered a safer alternative to more invasive surgical procedures for removing kidney stones or other solid masses. Its benefits typically outweigh the side effects and risks associated with lithotripsy in breaking down and facilitating the removal of stones. However, individual experiences can vary, so it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any unusual or severe symptoms following the procedure.

Benefits Of Lithotripsy 

There are several benefits associated with lithotripsy:

1. Non-invasive: Lithotripsy is a non-invasive procedure, meaning it doesn’t require surgical incisions. This can reduce the risks associated with traditional surgical methods.

2. Reduced pain and discomfort: Breaking kidney stones or urinary tract stones into smaller fragments can make it easier for the body to eliminate them, reducing pain and discomfort associated with passing larger stones.

3. Quick recovery: Since there are no surgical incisions, the recovery time for lithotripsy is typically shorter compared to traditional surgery. Patients can often go home the same day or the day after the procedure.

4. Minimal scarring: Lithotripsy usually leaves minimal or no visible scarring because it doesn’t involve cutting into the body.

5. Lower risk of infection: Because it’s a non-invasive procedure, the risk of infection is generally lower compared to surgical methods that require incisions.

6. High success rate: Lithotripsy is effective at breaking down a wide range of kidney and urinary tract stones, with a high success rate in eliminating or reducing the size of the stones.

7. Reduced hospitalization: Many lithotripsy procedures are done on an outpatient basis, meaning patients don’t need to stay in the hospital for an extended period.

8. Minimal side effects: While there can be some discomfort or pain during and after the procedure, the side effects of lithotripsy are generally manageable and temporary.

Who Can Benefit From Shock Wave Lithotripsy?

Shock wave lithotripsy is not suitable for everyone. It works best for smaller stones (less than 2 cm in diameter) located in the kidney or the upper part of the ureter (the tube that interconnects the kidney to the bladder). Your doctor will consider your stone size, shape, location, health, and anatomy before recommending SWL.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From Shock Wave Lithotripsy?

SWL is a non-invasive procedure that uses high-energy sound waves to shatter the stones into sand-like fragments that can be easily flushed out with urine. It does not require surgery or incisions, and it has a high success rate of 70 to 90 percent in good candidates.

The recovery time from SWL depends on several factors, such as the size, number, location, and composition of the stones, as well as your overall health and kidney function. However, in general, most people can resume their normal activities within one to two days after the procedure.

You may experience some pain or discomfort as the stone fragments pass through your urinary tract, lasting up to four to eight weeks. You may also notice some blood in your urine for a few days. These are expected side effects of SWL.

To help the stone fragments pass more easily and prevent infection, you should drink plenty of water (at least 2 liters per day) & take painkillers and antibiotics as recommended by your doctor. You should also avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and driving for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

You may need a follow-up appointment with your doctor to check if all the stone fragments have been cleared from your urinary tract. You may also need some tests, such as urine analysis, blood tests, or imaging studies, to monitor your kidney function and prevent the recurrence of stones.

How Can You Prevent Kidney Stones From Recurring?

Kidney stones can recur if you do not change your lifestyle and diet habits. To prevent kidney stones from forming again, you should:

– Drink at least 2 liters of water per day

– Limit your intake of animal protein, sodium, and oxalate-rich foods

– Eat more fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods

– Avoid excess intake of vitamin C and vitamin D supplements

– Treat any underlying medical conditions that cause stone formation

If you have a history of kidney stones, you should also get regular urine and blood tests to monitor your mineral levels and kidney function. Your doctor may prescribe medications to prevent certain types of stones from forming.

What To Expect Before, During & After Lithotripsy Procedure?

Before you have lithotripsy, your doctor will do some tests to check your health and ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure. These diagnostic tests may include blood tests, urine tests, kidney function tests, & imaging tests like x-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans to determine the size, location, number, and composition of your stones.

Your doctor will also give you instructions on how to prepare for lithotripsy. These may include:

– Stop consuming certain medications such as blood thinners, aspirin, or anti-inflammatory drugs a few days before the procedure.

– Do not eat or drink anything for several hours before the procedure.

– Arrange for someone to drive you home after the medical procedure.

– Bring a list of your medications & allergies with you.

– Wear comfortable clothing & remove any jewelry or metal objects.

What to expect during lithotripsy?

On the day of your procedure, you will be admitted to the hospital and taken to the operating room. You will be given anesthesia to make you comfortable and prevent pain. Depending on the type of lithotripsy you have, you will either lie on a water-filled cushion in a tub of water or an operating table with a ureteroscope inserted into your urinary tract.

The doctor will use X-rays or ultrasound to locate your stones and aim the shock waves or laser at them. You may hear loud noises or feel vibrations during ESWL, but this is normal and does not harm you. You may also feel some pressure or discomfort during laser lithotripsy as the ureteroscope moves inside your urinary tract.

The procedure usually lasts between 30 minutes to two hours, depending on how many stones you have and how hard they are. After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room, where you will be monitored for any complications. You may have an intravenous (IV) line to give you fluids and medications. You may also have a catheter (a tube) in your bladder to drain urine.

What to expect after lithotripsy?

After lithotripsy, you can go home once you are stable and awake. You will need someone to drive you home & stay with you for at least 24 hours. You may experience some side effects, such as:

– Pain or discomfort in your back, abdomen, groin, or genitals as the stone fragments pass through your urinary tract.

– Blood in your urine for a few days or weeks.

– Bruising or swelling on your skin where the shock waves were applied.

– Infection or fever.

– Nausea or vomiting.

These side effects are usually mild and temporary and can be managed with painkillers, antibiotics, anti-nausea drugs, and plenty of fluids. You should drink at least two liters of water daily to help flush out the stone fragments and prevent infection. You should also restrict strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for a few days or weeks.

You will need to follow up with your doctor after lithotripsy to check your recovery and make sure all the stones are gone. You may need another imaging test, such as an X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan, to confirm this. You may also need another lithotripsy session if some stones are still left or new ones form.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lithotripsy is a remarkable medical approach that revolutionized how kidney stones should be treated. It offers a non-invasive and highly effective way to break down and remove these painful obstructions in the urinary tract. This blog has provided a comprehensive understanding of lithotripsy, covering its meaning, cost in India, and the procedure itself.

When it comes to the cost of lithotripsy in India, it offers a cost-effective solution compared to many other countries. India is renowned for its world-class healthcare facilities and skilled medical professionals. The affordability of this procedure in India makes it an attractive choice for patients seeking effective stone removal without draining their finances. In essence, lithotripsy is a boon to those suffering from the excruciating pain of kidney stones. Its non-invasive nature, coupled with its cost-effectiveness in India, makes it a viable and attractive option for patients. 

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