Who Needs ESWL?

What Happens During the ESWL Procedure?

Risks & Complications of ESWL

ESWL Procedure Cost in India as Against Other Developed Regions in the World

Get ESWL Procedure Done in India

Experience top-notch healthcare facilities in India, it is a home away from your own! 

ESWL Procedure 

Extracorporeal-Shock-Wave-Lithotripsy (abbreviated to ESWL) is a non-invasive medical procedure used to break down kidney stones, as well as stones in other parts of the urinary tract and certain other organs, using shock waves generated from outside the body using a sort of machine that is known as the ‘lithotripter.’ The procedure is aimed at fragmenting the stones into smaller pieces, allowing them to pass more easily through the urinary tract and be excreted from the body. ESWL procedure cost in India sounds pleasing to the ears of many foreign patients, which has been tempting them to visit India and get the treatment done here!

Who Needs ESWL?

ESWL procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have kidney stones or other types of stones in the urinary tract. It may be considered in several cases, as follows:

• ESWL Procedure for Kidney Stones: ESWL procedure is commonly used to treat kidney stones that are relatively small (usually less than 2 cm in diameter) and are located in certain parts of the kidney. The stones should also be visible on imaging studies.

• ESWL Procedure for Ureteral Stones: Stones that have moved from the kidney into the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney and the bladder) may also be treated with the ESWL procedure, especially if they are causing pain or obstructing urine flow.

• ESWL Procedure for Bile Duct Stones: ESWL can be used to treat stones in the bile ducts, which are tubes that carry bile from the liver to the intestine. This is often an alternative to surgical removal of the stones.

• ESWL Procedure for Pancreatic Duct Stones: Similarly, ESWL may be employed to treat stones in the pancreatic duct, which is the tube that carries digestive enzymes from the pancreas to the intestine.

What Happens During the ESWL Procedure?

During the ESWL procedure, the patient lies on a treatment table, and a device called a lithotripter is used to generate shock waves. These shock waves are directed toward the location of the stone using imaging guidance (such as X-rays or ultrasound) to ensure accurate targeting. The shock waves are focused on the stone, causing it to break into smaller fragments. The patient may experience discomfort or a sensation similar to being flicked with a rubber band as the shock waves pass through the body.

Risks & Complications of ESWL

While ESWL is generally considered safe, there are some potential risks & complications, which include the ones that are mentioned below:

• Bruising or Hematoma: The shock waves can sometimes cause bruising or a collection of blood outside blood vessels (hematoma).

• Pain or Discomfort: Patients may experience pain or discomfort during or after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medications.

• Stone Fragments: The broken stone fragments may not always pass out of the body easily and could potentially cause blockages, requiring additional treatment.

• Infection(s): There is a slight risk of gathering infection(s) that may be associated with this procedure.

• Kidney Damage: In rare cases, ESWL may cause damage to the kidney tissue.

ESWL Procedure Cost in India as Against Other Developed Regions in the World

The cost of ESWL can vary significantly based on the country, region, medical facilities, and other factors. ESWL procedure cost in India is generally lower compared to many developed countries. In countries with high healthcare costs, such as the United States, the procedure can be more expensive. 

Why India for ESWL Procedure?

India has become a popular destination for medical tourism, including procedures like ESWL, for several reasons, some of which are given below:

• Cost-Effectiveness: One of the primary factors driving medical tourism to India is the cost-effectiveness of medical procedures. The cost of healthcare in India is often significantly lower than in many developed countries, making it an attractive option for patients seeking high-quality medical treatment at a fraction of the cost.

• High-Quality Healthcare: India boasts a number of internationally accredited & well-equipped hospitals with top-notch medical facilities. Many of these institutions have state-of-the-art technology, experienced medical professionals, and follow international standards for patient care.

• Experienced Medical Professionals: Indian doctors & medical staff are known for their expertise & experience in various medical specialties. Many doctors in India have received education & training from reputable institutions both within the country & abroad.

• Minimal Waiting Times: In some countries, long waiting lists for medical procedures can be a concern. India often offers shorter waiting times for procedures, allowing patients to receive treatment more promptly.

• English Proficiency: English is widely spoken in India, especially in the medical community. This can facilitate effective communication between international patients & healthcare providers.

• Tourism Opportunities: India’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical sites provide an additional incentive for medical tourists. Patients and their families often have the opportunity to combine medical treatment with leisure & tourism activities.

• Customized Healthcare Packages: Many medical tourism companies in India offer comprehensive packages that include medical treatment, accommodation, transportation, and even tourism options. This can simplify the process for international patients and provide a seamless experience.

• Accessibility: India is well-connected by international flights, making it relatively easy for patients from various parts of the world to travel to the country for medical treatment.

Get ESWL Procedure Done in India

It is pretty significant to note here that healthcare costs can change over time, and it is strongly advisable to check with local medical facilities or healthcare providers for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the ESWL procedure cost in India in comparison with other developed regions of the world. Keep in mind that medical insurance coverage & individual circumstances can also affect the out-of-pocket cost for the procedure. You can get in touch with the experts sitting under the roof of Health Trawell to conduct thorough research, seek recommendations, and communicate with healthcare providers to ensure that you receive appropriate and safe medical care while you are in India. It is also crucial to consider the potential risks & complications associated with travel along with the medical procedures performed here, and you must discuss these beforehand with the local healthcare professionals. You can get all this done under the able supervision of the Health Trawell team.