What is ESWL (extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy)?
ESWL is a non-surgical treatment in which high-energy acoustic waves produced outside the body are focused on a kidney or ureteral stone under imaging guidance, breaking it down to sand-sized particles. It is performed as an outpatient procedure and does not require anesthesia.
Is ESWL treatment painful?
With modern small-focus devices, most patients experience minimal discomfort. Mild painkiller support is usually sufficient when needed; no anesthesia is used.
How long does an ESWL session take?
On average 15-30 minutes. After the session, the patient returns home after a brief observation and can resume daily activities.
How many sessions are needed?
Depending on stone size, density, and location, 1-3 sessions are usually sufficient. Sessions are typically 1-2 weeks apart.
What is the ESWL success rate?
The success rate is over 90% in suitable patients. Stone composition, size, and location are the main factors influencing success.
What should I do after treatment?
Drink 2.5-3 liters of fluid daily, take your prescribed medications regularly, and attend your follow-up visits. Maintain moderate physical activity.
Is it normal to pass stone fragments in urine?
Yes. Broken stone fragments are naturally excreted through urine after ESWL. Color changes or small particles in urine are expected.
When can I return to work after ESWL?
Most patients can return to daily life and work the same day or the next day. Moderate activity is recommended for a few days in physically demanding jobs.
Who should not receive ESWL?
ESWL is not applied to patients with bleeding disorders, pregnancy, active infection at the treatment site, or uncontrolled cardiac disease. Evaluation is individualized.
Can ESWL be applied to children?
Yes. About 17% of stone patients in our country are children. ESWL is a primary, safely applied option with appropriate protocols in pediatric cases.
Can single-kidney patients receive ESWL?
Yes. With careful monitoring and suitable parameters, ESWL can be applied in single-kidney patients. Biosan is a pioneering center in this area.
Do anatomical variations such as horseshoe kidney prevent treatment?
No. Patients with anatomical variations such as horseshoe kidney may also receive ESWL after careful evaluation.
How are kidney stone treatment prices determined?
Healthcare fees are based on tariffs published by provincial medical chambers. Pricing is personalized according to session count, stone characteristics, and insurance status.
Is treatment covered by SGK?
Yes, we have an agreement with SGK. Services are provided within the referral rules and conditions determined by the institution.
Which private insurers do you work with?
We have agreements with many private insurance companies including Acıbadem Sigorta, Allianz, Anadolu Sigorta, AXA, Groupama, and Mapfre. Call our advisory team for current status.
What do I need before my consultation?
Your ID, insurance card or policy information (if any), and previous imaging and tests (US, CT, blood/urine) help the consultation go efficiently.
Why do kidney stones form?
Insufficient fluid intake, high-salt and high-protein diet, sedentary lifestyle, family history of stones, and certain metabolic diseases are the main contributing factors.
What should I do to prevent stone recurrence?
Daily intake of 2.5-3 liters of water, reduced salt intake, regular exercise, and dietary changes as advised by your physician significantly reduce recurrence risk.
What is ESWT for heel spur?
ESWT (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy) is a non-surgical shock wave therapy applied in chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as heel spur, calcific shoulder tendinitis, and tennis elbow.
Is ESWL used for gallstones?
In selected gallbladder and bile duct stones, for patients not suitable for or who prefer to avoid surgery, ESWL-assisted treatment may be an option. Proper patient selection is critical.
Is shock wave therapy applied in erectile dysfunction?
In suitable cases, low-intensity shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) may be applied as an adjunct method in vascular erectile dysfunction. Treatment planning is individualized.
How can I book an appointment?
You can fill out the contact form on our website, call us at 0212 234 54 55, or message us on WhatsApp. We will respond shortly.
How do I reach your clinic?
We serve at Büyükdere Caddesi No:15 Hür Han, 34381 Sisli - Istanbul. We are in a convenient location accessible by metro, bus, or private vehicle.