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urology
Lithotripsy
Lithotripsy is a procedure involving the physical destruction of hardened masses like kidney stones, bezoars, gallstones or sialolithiasis, which may be done non-invasively. The term is derived from Greek words meaning "breaking stones".
Quick Facts
- Price range
- $2,000–$8,000 USD
- Recovery
- 7 days
- Sessions
- 1
- Category
- urology
- Anaesthesia
- General or local
- Min. stay abroad
- 7 days
- Price Range (International)
- $2,000–$8,000 USD
- Average Recovery
- 7 days
- Typical Sessions
- 1
- Category
- urology
Overview
Lithotripsy is a procedure involving the physical destruction of hardened masses like kidney stones, bezoars, gallstones or sialolithiasis, which may be done non-invasively. The term is derived from Greek words meaning "breaking stones".
*Reference text adapted from Wikipedia under CC BY-SA 4.0. Verify with a qualified clinician before treatment.*
Key Considerations
Common Risks
Alternative treatments
Other clinically reasonable options for the same condition. The right alternative depends on the patient's specific anatomy, comorbidities, and goals — discuss with a treating clinician rather than self-selecting from this list.
Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy
Higher stone-free rate for lower-pole or larger stones; more invasive.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy
First-line for stones >2 cm; significantly more invasive but most definitive.
Medical expulsive therapy + hydration
Appropriate for stones <5 mm in distal ureter; spontaneous passage rate ~80%.
Credentials a clinic should hold
Specialty-board certifications and facility-level accreditations relevant to this procedure. Verify on the issuer's public register before booking — most issuers publish a searchable directory.
National urology board
Issuer Country-specific (e.g. ABU in US, FRCS Urol in UK, EBU in Europe)
Specialty-board certification in urology — minimum credential for endourology procedures (lithotripsy, ureteroscopy) and prostate surgery.
Verify on the issuer's register →
Recovery Timeline
Average recovery for Lithotripsy is 7 days. Individual recovery varies — always follow your surgeon’s specific guidance.
- 01Day 0–1
Immediate
First 24–48 hours post-procedure. Monitoring, anaesthesia recovery, initial pain management. Most clinics expect you to remain on-site or nearby.
- 02Day 2–2
Early recovery
Wound care, swelling or bruising peaks, restricted activity. Typical window for follow-up visits and drain removal if applicable. Travel is usually not advised.
- 03Day 3–5
Intermediate recovery
Gradual return to non-strenuous daily activity. Many international patients fly home during this window. Surgeon may require medical clearance for long-haul travel.
- 04Day 6–7
Full recovery
Return to full activity, exercise, and work. Final results may still be settling. Final follow-up with local doctor recommended.
Questions to Ask Your Clinic
Browse all destinations offering Lithotripsy →Detailed cost breakdown →
Frequently Asked Questions
Video: what are kidney stones?
This animation explains how kidneys function, how to prevent kidney stones and the treatment options.
Key terms
Glossary entries associated with lithotripsy