Lithotripsy to Treat Kidney Stones This procedure is most effective for stones in the kidney or upper ureter.

Lithrotripsy uses an instrument, machine, or probe to break the stone into tiny particles that can pass naturally. This procedure is not appropriate for patients with very large stones or certain other medical conditions. Ultrasonic lithotripsy uses high frequency sound waves delivered through an electronic probe inserted into the ureter to break up the kidney stone. The fragments are passed by the patient or removed surgically. Electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) uses a flexible probe to break up small stones with shock waves generated by electricity. The probe is positioned close to the stone through a flexible ureteroscope. Fragments can be passed by the patient or extracted. EHL requires general anesthesia and can be used to break stones anywhere in the urinary system.

Open Surgery to Treat Kidney Stones This procedure requires general anesthesia. An incision is made in the patient's back and the stone is extracted through an incision in the ureter or kidney. Most patients require prolonged hospitalization and recovery takes several weeks. This procedure is now rarely used for kidney stones.