Kidney Stones - Prevention

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Success rates range from 50 - 90% depending on the location of the stone and the surgeon's technique and level of experience. Recovery time is short, and most people can resume normal activities in a few days.

Complications. Complications may include the following:

• The most common complication is blood in the urine, which lasts for a few days after treatment. To reduce the chances of bleeding, doctors usually tell patients to avoid taking aspirin and other NSAIDs, which can promote bleeding, for 7 to 10 days before the treatment.
• Bruising and minor discomfort due to the shock waves are common in the back or abdomen.
• Sometimes the stone is not completely fragmented with one treatment, and additional treatments then may be required. Inability to pass stone fragments may also be a particular problem in patients who have cysts or other kidney abnormalities.
• Higher risk for diabetes later. A 2006 study published in the journal Urology found that 17% of patients who received shock-wave lithotripsy developed diabetes later in life. The diabetes risk was related to the number and intensity of shocks.
• Higher risk for hypertension (high blood pressure). The same study that linked ESWL to diabetes also showed that people who received shock-wave lithotripsy treatment were 47% more likely to develop high blood pressure than those who had their stones treated without surgery.

ESWL appears to be safe for children, although a 2001 study reported temporary damage in the kidney tubules (glomeruli) after treatment. It is not known if this complication has any long-term consequences. Experts recommend using the least amount of shocks and impact possible in young people. If more than one treatment is needed, there should be a waiting period of at least 15 days.