ESWL and ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy are excellent options for treating kidney stones. ESWL is often used for calcium-based calculations. The right choice depends on several factors, such as the size, location and composition of the kidney stone, as well as your general health. Systemic surgery is often recommended for smaller stones, while laser removal is ideal for larger or more persistent stones.
Consulting a doctor who specializes in kidney stones will ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment based on your unique needs. This study aimed to compare shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) with ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URS) for ureteral stones in terms of stone-free rates, complication rates, and overall treatment costs. The doctor can remove kidney stones by inserting a small wire basket into the tube, grabbing the kidney stone in the basket and dragging it back through the tube and taking it out of the body. The doctor may also use a laser (shock wave lithotripsy) during a ureteroscopy to break down kidney stones and make them easier to extraction.
Ureteroscopy is best for smaller stones. It is more likely to eliminate all kidney stones compared to extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Laser lithotripsy is more effective at breaking stones than shockwave lithotripsy (due to the size, location, or hardness of the stone). However, since laser lithotripsy requires a surgical device inserted into the body, it involves some risks that shockwave lithotripsy does not entail.