Lithotripsy is a non-surgical medical procedure that uses high-energy sound waves (shock waves) or laser technology to break kidney stones, bladder stones, or ureteral stones into smaller fragments. Once broken down, these fragments pass naturally through the urinary tract.

There are two main types of lithotripsy:

1. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL):
   This is the most common type. It uses shock waves generated outside the body to target and break stones inside the kidney or ureter.

2. Laser Lithotripsy (Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy):
   In this technique, a thin scope (ureteroscope) is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the stone. A laser is then used to break the stone into smaller pieces for removal or natural expulsion.

When Is Lithotripsy Recommended?

Doctors recommend lithotripsy when:

• Kidney stones are too large to pass naturally.

• Stones cause severe pain or urinary obstruction.

• Stones lead to repeated urinary tract infections.

• There is blood in the urine due to stone movement.

• Medication or hydration fails to dissolve or move the stones.

Lithotripsy is typically performed when stones measure between 5 mm and 20 mm and are located in the kidney or upper ureter.

How the Procedure Works ?

Here’s what happens during a lithotripsy procedure:

1. Pre-procedure evaluation:
   Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans are performed to locate and measure the stones.

2. Sedation or anesthesia:
   Depending on the type of lithotripsy, patients receive mild sedation or anesthesia for comfort.

3. Stone targeting:
   The patient lies on a specialized table or in a water bath. The machine sends focused shock waves or laser pulses toward the stone using precise imaging guidance.

4. Stone fragmentation:
   The high-energy waves break the stone into smaller, sand-like particles over 30–60 minutes.

5. Natural expulsion:
   The stone fragments pass naturally through urine over the following days or weeks.

6. Post-procedure care:
   Patients may be prescribed pain relief medication and advised to drink plenty of water to help flush out the fragments.

Benefits of Lithotripsy

Lithotripsy offers numerous benefits compared to open surgery, including:

• Minimally invasive: No incisions or surgical cuts are required.

• Quick recovery: Most patients can resume normal activities within 2–3 days.

• High success rate: Effective for stones up to 2 cm in size.

• Reduced hospital stay: Often performed as an outpatient procedure.

• Lower risk of infection or complications.

• Cost-effective treatment option when compared to traditional surgical methods.

Recovery After Lithotripsy

After lithotripsy, mild discomfort, bruising, or blood in urine may occur for a few days — all normal signs of recovery.

Post-procedure care tips:

• Drink 2–3 liters of water daily to flush out stone fragments.

• Take prescribed painkillers or antibiotics as directed.

• Avoid heavy exercise for 2–3 days.

• Follow up with your doctor for imaging to confirm stone clearance.

• Watch for signs of fever, severe pain, or difficulty urinating — and report them immediately.

Success Rate of Lithotripsy

The success rate of lithotripsy depends on the size, number, and location of stones. On average:

• Up to 90% success for stones under 1 cm.

• 70–80% success for stones between 1–2 cm.

• Multiple sessions may be required for very large or hard stones.

At One Life Medical Tourism, patients are connected to top urologists and advanced hospitals in India that offer the latest ESWL and laser lithotripsy technologies, ensuring maximum safety and efficiency.

Lithotripsy Cost in India

India offers some of the most affordable lithotripsy treatments in the world without compromising on quality.

The average cost of lithotripsy in India ranges from ₹35,000 to ₹90,000 (USD $420–$1,100) depending on:

• Type of lithotripsy (ESWL or laser).

• Hospital and city.

• Stone size and number.

• Use of anesthesia and follow-up procedures.

When arranged through One Life Medical Tourism, patients enjoy transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and full package options that include:

• Pre-surgery consultation and diagnostics.

• Procedure costs.

• Hospital stay and medications.

• Post-treatment care and follow-up.

• Visa assistance and travel coordination.

Why Choose One Life Medical Tourism for Lithotripsy?

One Life Medical Tourism is a trusted facilitator for international patients seeking affordable and advanced lithotripsy treatment in India.

Here’s why global patients prefer One Life Medical Tourism:

1. Network of top urology specialists:
   Access to highly experienced urologists trained in the latest stone removal techniques.

2. Accredited hospitals:
   Partnered with NABH and JCI-certified hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art lithotripsy machines.

3. Affordable medical packages:
   Comprehensive and transparent pricing designed to suit every budget.

4. Personalized patient care:
   End-to-end support from consultation to recovery, including local assistance and translation services.

5. Travel and accommodation assistance:
   Help with visa processing, flight booking, hotel arrangements, and ground transportation.

6. Seamless coordination:
   Dedicated case managers ensure smooth communication between patients and doctors.

7. Holistic care experience:
   Comfort, hygiene, and safety are prioritized throughout the journey.

Whether you’re traveling from Africa, the Middle East, Europe, or Asia, One Life Medical Tourism ensures that you receive world-class treatment at a fraction of international costs.

Lithotripsy in India – Best Cities and Hospitals

Some of the top cities in India for lithotripsy include:

• Delhi NCR – Apollo Hospitals, Fortis, Max Healthcare.

• Mumbai – Nanavati Hospital, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.

• Chennai – Gleneagles Global Health City, MIOT Hospital.

• Bangalore – Manipal Hospitals, Aster CMI.

• Hyderabad – Yashoda Hospitals, Care Hospitals.

Through One Life Medical Tourism, patients can choose from a wide network of hospitals that meet international standards and have modern lithotripsy facilities.

Preparing for Lithotripsy Treatment

Before the procedure, doctors may advise:

• Stopping blood-thinning medications like aspirin or warfarin.

• Fasting for a few hours before treatment.

• Taking prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection.

• Undergoing imaging to confirm stone location.

At One Life Medical Tourism, all pre-surgery guidance, appointments, and hospital coordination are managed by dedicated care teams for a stress-free experience.

Risks and Complications (Rare)

Although lithotripsy is safe, some minor risks include:

• Blood in urine for a few days.

• Bruising on the treated area.

• Stone fragments causing temporary blockage.

• Urinary infection or discomfort.

These issues are usually mild and resolve with proper care and hydration. Hospitals under One Life Medical Tourism follow the highest safety protocols to minimize such risks.

Alternative Treatments for Kidney Stones

If lithotripsy is not suitable, doctors may recommend:

• Ureteroscopy (URS): Removing stones using a small scope.

• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Surgical removal for large stones (>2 cm).

• Medication therapy: For dissolvable stones (uric acid-based).

One Life Medical Tourism helps patients evaluate these options with expert medical consultations.

Experience India’s Healthcare Excellence

Choosing lithotripsy in India through One Life Medical Tourism not only ensures world-class treatment but also an opportunity to experience India’s hospitality, culture, and care.

The team assists in:

• Visa and travel arrangements

• Airport pickup and local transport

• Hotel and food assistance

• Post-treatment checkups and virtual follow-ups

Your medical journey is managed end-to-end with professionalism and compassion.

Lithotripsy is a highly effective, safe, and minimally invasive treatment for kidney stones that restores comfort and quality of life. With One Life Medical Tourism, patients can access internationally accredited hospitals, skilled urologists, and cost-effective packages without worrying about logistics or hidden costs.

If you’re struggling with kidney stones and looking for an affordable and reliable solution abroad, One Life Medical Tourism is your trusted partner for lithotripsy treatment in India.