During SWL

Expert information, personalized support, and care you can trust — at every step.​

Positioning for Treatment

You’ll lie on a special treatment table, often with a soft water cushion or a gel pad that helps transmit the shockwaves effectively.
The healthcare team will carefully position your body to line up the stone precisely with the shockwave generator.

Imaging and Stone Targeting

  • Real-time X-ray or ultrasound imaging is used to locate the stone inside your urinary system.
  • Once the stone is targeted, the machine will focus high-energy sound waves (shockwaves) at the stone.
Shockwave Delivery

During treatment:
• Thousands of focused shockwaves are delivered through your skin and tissues directly onto the stone.
• You may feel light tapping or mild pressure, depending on the level of sedation.
These shockwaves break the stone into tiny fragments, small enough to pass naturally in urine.

Monitoring Throughout the Procedure
  • Throughout SWL, your vital signs will be continuously monitored to ensure your safety and comfort.
  • The medical team may adjust the intensity of the shockwaves or your positioning as needed to optimize the results.

After the Treatment

Once the procedure is complete:

  • You’ll be taken to a recovery area for observation (typically 30–60 minutes).
  • Most patients are discharged the same day.
  • Mild discomfort, bruising, or blood in the urine is common for a few days as your body starts passing the fragments.

Lithotripsy Academy is an educational initiative of Endourology Academy, focused on advancing knowledge and training in Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL) through evidence-based learning and clinical expertise.

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