USA Health Kidney Stone Center

In Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL), one of the most-common treatments, a kidney stone is broken apart by high-energy shock waves from outside the body. The shock waves turn the kidney stone into small pieces, the size of a grain of sand, which can be passed naturally. 

During Laser Lithotripsy, a ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra to access the stone, and a laser in the scope is used to break-up large or irregularly shaped stones. Larger fragments can be collected and removed during the procedure, and smaller fragments can be passed naturally.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a minimally invasive approach to surgically removing irregularly shaped kidney stones or ones larger than 2 centimeters. Through a small incision in the back, the doctor will use a nephroscope to find the stone and remove it through a tube.

Using ureteroscopy, doctors can treat kidney stones located anywhere in the ureter or kidneys, including close to the bladder. A small scope is inserted through the urethra. Once the stone is located, a small basket can catch and remove it, or the stone can be broken up into smaller pieces. Ureteroscopy is often used for patients who are pregnant or who otherwise aren't suited for other procedures.