|
Suite 207 Baltimore, MD 21208 (410) 653-7201 |
| What Are Kidney Stones? |
|
When stones grow too large to pass out of the body naturally, they can obstruct normal urine flow and cause sudden, severe pain. Other symptoms may include bloody urine, pain while urinating, infections, and nausea. Permanent relief can only be obtained by removal of the stone. |
| What Treatment is Available? |
| Until recently, the only method to remove stones was surgical. Today, a new non-surgical technique is available. It is called Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESL) and has been hailed as a revolutionary medical breakthrough in patient safety and comfort. |
| What is Lithotripsy? |
| "Lithotripsy" is derived from a Greek word meaning "stone fragmentation". The equipment system generates low energy wave impulses which are focused on the kidney stone causing it to break into tiny particles. These small fragments can then be passed naturally from the urinary system. |
| Recommended by Physicians |
| Along with approximately 40 other physicians, your doctor has an equity share in the treatment unit. He has this ownership because he believes that being involved in this facility is the best way to ensure quality care for you. When he recommends treatment here, it's because he knows you will receive the highest attainable level of professional care and attention. Your doctor wants the best for you. That's why he sends you here. |
| What Will I Need To Do Prior To Treatment? |
|
Your doctor's office will arrange a date and time for your treatment. Do not take any aspirin containing products for 10 days prior to treatment unless otherwise specified by your doctor. Do not eat or drink anything for twelve (12) hours prior to the scheduled time for your treatment. If you take any medications on a routine basis discuss with your physician whether or not to take them on the day of your treatment. If you are diabetic and requlre insulin, be sure and ask your doctor how much insulin to take the morning of treatment. You will be instructed to be at the hospital several hours before treatment, in order that lab work and X-rays can be performed. You will need to make arrangements for a friend or family member to take you home afterwards. You should not drive until the next day. |
| What Can I Expect During the Treatment? |
|
You will be brought to the treatment unit by hospital personnel. Before beginning treatment you will be comfortably positioned on the ESL treatment table. The wave applicator will be placed against your side. The applicator will direct a series of wave impulses which pass harmlessly through your body. These impulses are then absorbed by the stone and cause it to fragment. You will feel a tapping sensation where the applicator contacts your skin, and hear a slight clicking noise from the machine. Each wave lasts only 1/2 second and the entire procedure will take approximately one hour. Following treatment you will return to the recovery area. Depending on the amount of medication you have received you will be observed for a short period of time prior to discharge. |
| What Can I Expect Following Treatment? |
|
Before leaving the hospital you will receive discharge instructions. Please read and follow them carefully. It can take from several days to several weks to pass the stone particles. Additional treatments are seldom required. Some patients, however do require re-treatment. Your doctor will advise you if any additional treatment is needed. Your Urologist will have you return to his office for a follow-up exam and x-rays to determine if any stone particles remain. Kidney stones can be a serious disorder and you may require changes in your diet or even medication to prevent recurrence. Remember, if you have any questions about your condition or treatment, ask your Urologist. |
Most kidney stones
are crystalline masses of calcium oxalate, a hard salt compound,
which can vary in size from a grain of sand to over an inch in
diameter . They form gradually and are found anywhere in the
urinary tract. Often the cause is unknown, but experts suggest
age, diet, climate, infection, and heredity as possible factors.
Antietam UroSurgical
Center, L.L.C., ASC
Antietam Center
for Men's Health, L.L.C.
301-733-0022 •
1-888-326-0022
11110
Medical Campus Road
Suite 228
Hagerstown, MD 21742