Lithotripsy is a medical procedure that uses shock waves or lasers to break down stones in the kidney, bladder, or ureter into smaller fragments that can be easily passed out of the body. It is a non-invasive treatment option that reduces the need for surgery and has a high success rate for treating certain types of kidney stones.

Lithotripsy

medical procedure

Shock waves are nonlinear propagating disturbances that occur when an object moves through a medium faster than the speed of sound in that medium, causing a sudden change in pressure, temperature, and density. They are characterized by an abrupt, nearly discontinuous change in the properties of the medium, often resulting in phenomena such as sonic booms or explosive waves.

shock waves

Lasers emit light through a process of optical amplification based on the stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation, producing a coherent beam with a narrow spectrum of wavelengths. They have diverse applications ranging from medical procedures and telecommunications to manufacturing and scientific research.

lasers

stones in the kidney

Stones in the bladder

Stones in the ureter

smaller fragments

Non-invasive treatment refers to medical procedures that do not require incision into the body or removal of tissue, minimizing recovery time and reducing the risk of complications. These treatments often utilize advanced technologies such as lasers, ultrasound, or electromagnetic fields to target specific areas without harming surrounding tissues.

non-invasive treatment

Surgery is a medical specialty that involves the use of operative techniques to investigate or treat pathological conditions such as disease or injury. It requires a deep understanding of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and post-operative care to ensure patient safety and successful outcomes.

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