Lithotripsy

Lithotripsy is a procedure involving the physical destruction of hardened masses like kidney stones, bezoars or gallstones, which may be done non invasively. The term is derived from the Greek words meaning "breaking (or pulverizing) stones" (litho- + τρίψω [tripso]). Lithotripsy is a non-invasive procedure used to break up hardened masses like kidney stones, bezoars or gallstones. "Commonly cited absolute contraindications to SWL include pregnancy, coagulopathy or use of platelet aggregation inhibitors, aortic aneurysms, severe untreated hypertension, and untreated urinary tract infections." Extracorporeal shock wave therapy Intracorporeal (endoscopic lithotripsy): Laser lithotripsy : effective for larger stones (> 2 cm) with good stone-free and complication rates. Electrohydraulic lithotripsy Mechanical lithotripsy Ultrasonic lithotripsy : safer for small stones (