What are the effects of extracorporeal lithotripsy on the human body?
Disease description:
I personally have kidney stones and went to the hospital for extracorporeal lithotripsy. However, my body felt quite uncomfortable afterward, and I often had trouble sleeping at night. Additionally, there is some pain in the abdominal area. May I ask, what effects does extracorporeal lithotripsy have on the human body?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) mainly affects the human body in the following aspects:
1. Hematuria: Almost all patients will experience hematuria after ESWL. The severity is proportional to the lithotripsy energy used. Hematuria typically resolves spontaneously after 2–3 episodes, though medical attention may be required in severe cases.
2. Pain and stone street formation: Stone fragments may irritate the ureter, causing renal colic. This typically does not require special treatment; however, if the pain is severe or a stone street forms, repeat lithotripsy or endoscopic stone removal may be necessary.
3. Renal injury: This includes subcapsular hematoma and renal atrophy, often caused by excessive sessions or high-energy lithotripsy. The number of sessions and energy levels should be strictly controlled.
4. Infection: During lithotripsy, bacteria and toxins within the stone may enter the bloodstream, causing infection. Postoperative care and anti-infective therapy should be emphasized.
If severe pain persists, immediate medical attention is recommended.
