Lithotripsy

Few medical conditions are as painful as kidney stones. These small, painful rocks can cause discomfort in your kidneys and severe pain when you pass them. In the worst-case scenario, a kidney stone will be too big to pass and become lodged where it causes severe health complications.

If you believe you have a kidney stone, you should consult with a urologist as soon as possible. At Adventist Health Castle, we offer state-of-the-art, fast and convenient outpatient treatment to Windward O’ahu patients suffering from kidney stones through a lithotripter machine.

What is lithotripsy?

Lipsotripsy is a cutting-edge, nonsurgical treatment for large kidney stones. This treatment uses high-energy shock waves to break kidney stones down until they are as small as grains of sand. This makes them easier to pass.

Adventist Health Castle has invested in the Siemens Lithostar lithotripter system, which provides high-resolution radiographic digital imaging and more precise treatment with reduced shock wave energy, putting less strain on the patient than previous technology. Hospitalization is typically not required for the procedure.

There is no recovery period needed after a lithotripsy treatment. You should be able to resume normal activities right away, and the stone fragments should pass during the coming weeks.

Preventing future kidney stones

If you have had one kidney stone, your chances of developing another are high. Fortunately, kidney stones can be prevented by paying attention to your diet and water intake.

To help prevent kidney stones:

• Drink plenty of water
• Drink even more water if you sweat often
• Add more calcium to your diet
• Ask your doctor before taking calcium supplements, which can increase your risk of stones
• Cut down on sodium (salt)
• Avoid oxalate-rich foods like chocolate, spinach, sweet potatoes and nuts
• Cut down on beef, poultry, fish and pork

For a referral to a urologist, please call the Call Center at (808) 263-5400.