
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a non-invasive treatment of kidney stones. Using the Dornier Compact Delta II ESWL machine, the kidney stones are broken down by using an externally applied, high-intensity shock wave. The fragmented stones will then pass naturally with urine. The ESWL works best on kidney stones measuring 4 - 20mm. Larger, harder or multiple stones may require a second blasting, normally repeated after a week from the first. The pain is minimal and most patients can return to their daily routines after a day's rest.