If you’ve ever had a kidney stone or even heard someone describe the pain, you’ll understand just how important timely and effective treatment is. The pain can be sudden, intense, and completely disrupt your life. But the good news? Not every case needs surgery. Thanks to advancements in urology, there’s now a safer, simpler way: lithotripsy.
At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar offers expert-led, non-invasive lithotripsy treatment in Bangalore, helping patients find fast relief without complicated hospital processes or unnecessary surgery. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what lithotripsy is, when it’s recommended, what recovery looks like, and most importantly, what to expect when you walk into Dr. Shiva Kumar’s clinic.
What Is Lithotripsy?
Let’s start with the basics. Lithotripsy is a non-surgical method to break kidney stones into tiny pieces, so they can be passed naturally through your urine. It’s done using external energy, usually Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL), that targets the stone precisely without cutting or incisions.
It’s often done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you walk in and walk out the same day. With minimal prep and no hospital stay, lithotripsy is usually preferred by patients who want faster recovery and less hassle.
Why Lithotripsy?
Let’s be real, surgery is scary. And when you're in pain, the last thing you want is a complicated hospital admission or a long recovery.
Here’s why lithotripsy treatment is increasingly becoming the go-to solution:
- - No incisions or stitches
- - Quick recovery (often 24–48 hours)
- - Minimal discomfort compared to traditional surgery
- - Safe and effective for small to medium-sized stones
- - Done under sedation or light anesthesia for comfort
At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar personally conducts every evaluation, procedure, and follow-up. So when you opt for lithotripsy here, you’re treated by one experienced specialist, no departments, no handoffs.
When Is Lithotripsy Recommended?
Not all stones are created equal. Some are tiny and pass on their own, while others are more stubborn. Lithotripsy is typically recommended when:
- - Stones are between 5 mm and 20 mm in size
- - Stones are located in the kidney or the upper ureter
- - Medication hasn’t worked or caused side effects
- - You prefer to avoid invasive surgery
If you’re unsure whether you’re a candidate for lithotripsy, don’t worry, Dr. Shiva Kumar performs a thorough scan and evaluation before recommending any treatment.
How the Procedure Works
The actual lithotripsy session typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. You’ll lie on a treatment table while shock waves are directed at the stone using imaging guidance. These waves pass through skin and tissue without causing harm and break the stone into smaller bits.
Here’s what the experience is like at Shree Srinivasa Uro Care:
- - Consultation & Imaging – Dr. Shiva Kumar reviews your case, orders a scan, and explains the plan in simple terms.
- - Pre-Procedure Prep – Basic tests are done, and any necessary hydration or dietary guidelines are shared.
- - Day of Procedure – You arrive, undergo the session with light sedation or anesthesia, and are observed briefly afterward.
- - Post-Care Plan – Pain relief, hydration tips, and follow-up checks are explained clearly, so you're never left guessing.
Recovery After Lithotripsy
Recovery is usually smooth and uneventful. Most patients are back to work within one to two days. You may pass stone fragments over the next few days, which can cause some mild discomfort, but nothing compared to the original pain.
Dr. Shiva Kumar will also ask you to:
- - Drink plenty of fluids to flush out stone fragments
- - Monitor urine for any unusual changes
- - Avoid strenuous activity for a couple of days
- - Attend a follow-up visit to ensure full clearance
Cost of Lithotripsy Treatment in Bangalore: What You Should Know
We get this question a lot: “How much does lithotripsy cost?”
The answer depends on several factors:
- - The type of lithotripsy (shock wave vs laser)
- - Whether anesthesia is required
- - Diagnostic imaging and blood work
- - Post-procedure medication and reviews
At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, you get transparent, all-inclusive pricing, so you know exactly what to expect. There are no hidden charges, no unnecessary add-ons, just clear, straightforward care.
Why Choose Shree Srinivasa Uro Care?
- - Specialist-Led Care – You deal only with Dr. Shiva Kumar from start to finish.
- - No-Rush Appointments – Every step is explained in detail, no jargon, no rush.
- - Comfortable Environment – The clinic is calm, clean, and designed for patient comfort.
- - Modern Technology – Lithotripsy equipment is up-to-date and well-maintained.
- - Ethical Pricing – Clear, fair pricing without inflated hospital overheads.
FAQs
Q1. Is lithotripsy very painful?
Not really. Most patients feel only mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure, especially since sedation or anesthesia is usually given. Afterward, you may feel a dull ache or slight cramping as the stone fragments pass, but this is short-lived and manageable with medication.
Q2. Is lithotripsy a high-risk surgery?
Lithotripsy is not considered surgery; it's a non-invasive procedure and carries very low risk. While complications like mild bleeding or incomplete stone clearance are rare, they are easily managed with follow-up care. Under the careful guidance of Dr. Shiva Kumar, risks are minimal and well-controlled.
Q3. How much does lithotripsy cost?
While exact numbers vary, the cost generally depends on the technology used, the complexity of your case, and whether additional imaging or anesthesia is required. Dr. Shiva Kumar ensures that you’re informed upfront, no surprises or unclear billing.
Q4. What size kidney stone requires lithotripsy?
Lithotripsy is most effective for stones sized between 5 mm and 20 mm. Smaller stones may pass on their own, while larger or harder stones might need different procedures like PCNL. That’s why accurate diagnosis and imaging are key before choosing the treatment.
Q5. What is the recovery time for lithotripsy?
Most patients can return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. Full stone clearance may take a few days to a week as fragments pass naturally. Dr. Shiva Kumar will guide you with hydration tips and pain management to make recovery as smooth
Relief Is Closer Than You Think
Kidney stones may be common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with the pain or opt for surgery right away. Lithotripsy offers a proven, gentle, and effective solution, and under the care of a trusted expert like Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar, you’re in safe hands.
At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, you won’t feel like a number, you’ll feel heard, supported, and cared for every step of the way.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Don't wait for the pain to return. Book a consultation today at Shree Srinivasa Uro Care and let Dr. Shiva Kumar walk you through your options for non-invasive lithotripsy treatment in Bangalore, with clarity, confidence, and compassion.