One of the most effective, non-invasive methods for kidney stone treatment.
Dr. Ahmad Ahmadov has been practicing as a certified urologist and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy specialist in leading clinics since 2006.
He combines advanced medical technologies and modern approaches in ESWL with personalized treatment strategies, providing patients with a high level of safe and effective medical care.
His professional experience, precision-based approach, and patient-oriented treatment philosophy distinguish him as one of the most trusted specialists in the field.
Certified Urologist & ESWL Specialist
20+ Years of Experience
25,000+ Successful Procedures
Kidney stone disease (urolithiasis) is one of the current problems in urology. The problem of the disease's widespread occurrence and recurrence of stone formation is relevant. According to statistics, approximately 5–15% of the world's population has urolithiasis to some degree. Crystalluria (the condition where stone-forming substances exceed normal levels and begin to deposit) is common. The patient may be asymptomatic and may feel well for a long time without any symptoms, feeling fine. Sometimes a patient may visit a doctor with kidney pain and upon examination be told they have a stone that has been present for a long time.
Modern treatment of kidney stone disease offers many treatment methods. Advanced methods in developed countries involve wide use of minimally invasive techniques, applied only in specific cases. Currently, the most commonly used minimal invasive methods are available. Among these methods, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is particularly widely used and is one of the effective methods. This method does not require any incision or surgical intervention; shock waves are directed from outside the body and afterward the fragments are naturally excreted through urine. The procedure is non-invasive, safe, and can be performed on the same day, allowing the patient to go home. For small and medium-sized stones, this is the most preferred method. When extracorporeal lithotripsy is not possible, endoscopic methods such as URS (ureteroscopy) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) are used. Stone formation mechanisms can be explained as follows: initially, the basic organic core material forms, then layers of stone-forming mineral substances build up on it. Stones are classified according to their composition as follows:
Urate, oxalate, and mixed stones are the most commonly encountered types (90%).
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy uses focused shock waves to break kidney stones into small fragments.
The lithotripter generates precisely focused shock waves.
Focused waves break the stone into tiny fragments.
Small fragments travel through the ureter to the bladder.
Fragments are naturally excreted through urination.
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A modern, minimally invasive method using shock waves to break kidney and ureteral stones into fragments without any surgical intervention. The procedure is performed using a special device, and the stone fragments are naturally excreted through urine.
Extracorporeal lithotripsy provides a painless, safe, and quick solution for stone removal. If you are looking for comfort and fast recovery, this is the ideal method.
URS (ureterorenoscopy) is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure for direct visualization and removal of stone fragments from the ureter. A thin endoscope is inserted through the urethra into the ureter to locate and remove or fragment stones using laser energy.
This method is used for removing large (staghorn) and very dense stones from the kidneys using a minimally invasive surgical approach. The choice is made according to the patient's individual situation.
Why ESWL is the preferred choice for kidney stone treatment.
No incisions, no needles, no instruments entering the body.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort.
Treatment typically takes 30-60 minutes.
Success rates of 70-95%.
Return to normal activities within 1-2 days.
Used worldwide for over 40 years.
We are the only center in the Republic performing lithotripsy in children from infancy.
In children under 8–9 years of age, the procedure is performed under sedation in the presence of a qualified anesthesiologist.
Due to the shorter and more elastic ureter, treatment outcomes are often even better than in adults.
Specific pediatric contraindications include congenital anomalies of the ureters.
Comprehensive medical details about ESWL treatment.
Extracorporeal lithotripsy — is a method of breaking kidney and ureteral stones into fragments using minimal invasive approach. However, the patient should be aware of the following:
• The method does not guarantee 100% stone clearance with minimal pain. After the session, some stone fragments may pass naturally through the urinary tract in a different pattern. The process may vary: some fragments pass easily, while ISA can cause severe pain, renal colic, nausea, and may require medical attention.
• If pain becomes unbearable, the doctor may recommend inserting a ureteral stent (Double-J stent) before or after ESWL to allow easier fragment passage and reduce the risk of obstruction.
• In some cases URS (ureteroscopy) may be necessary. If stone fragments cause blockage or the ureter becomes obstructed, URS may be required. URS is used to remove remaining fragments from the ureter.
After the procedure, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids (2–2.5 liters) and follow the medical regimen prescribed by your doctor.
• Predicting exact outcomes is not possible — stent, URS, or repeated lithotripsy sessions may become necessary. Outcomes can only be determined after post-treatment observation.
In conclusion: extracorporeal lithotripsy is an effective, safe, and modern method, but regardless of how the procedure goes, it is important to be prepared for individual treatment processes and follow the treatment plan.
Stones in the renal pelvis or calyces within this size range respond well to ESWL.
Stones in the upper third of the ureter can be effectively treated.
Most stones under 2cm are ideal candidates.
Stones not causing complete obstruction.
Stones with CT density under 1300–1400 Hounsfield Units are more fragile and respond well to ESWL. Higher-density stones may resist fragmentation.
ESWL is not performed on pregnant patients.
Patients with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulant therapy. Anticoagulants must be discontinued at least 5 days prior.
Active urinary tract infection must be treated first.
Patients with aortic aneurysm near treatment area.
Shock waves can interfere with pacemaker function. Cardiologist clearance is required before ESWL.
Blood in urine, typically resolves in 24-48 hours.
Larger fragments may require additional sessions.
Accumulation of fragments in the ureter. May require stenting or URS.
Temporary flank pain or bruising.
A thin, flexible tube placed inside the ureter to maintain urine flow.
Ensures continuous drainage. Removed after 1-4 weeks.
URS (ureterorenoscopy) is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure for direct visualization and removal of stone fragments from the ureter.
Due to individual anatomical features, excess body weight, or specific stone location, ESWL may be technically impossible in certain patients. In such cases, the physician will provide professional recommendations and refer the patient to the appropriate specialist.
We use the Storz Modulith SLX-F2 — one of the world's most advanced electromagnetic lithotripters.
Storz SLX F2 — современный высокоэффективный литотриптор для дистанционного дробления камней почек и мочеточника. Аппарат оснащён инлайн-УЗИ наведением, позволяющим в реальном времени точно визуализировать конкремент и контролировать процедуру. Дополнительная рентген-навигация обеспечивает двойной контроль позиционирования. Система с изменяемым фокусом ударной волны позволяет адаптировать воздействие под размер и глубину камня, повышая эффективность и безопасность лечения.
Following these guidelines will help optimize stone fragment passage and recovery.
Consume up to 2–3 liters of fluids per day.
Stay moderately active. Avoid prolonged lying or sitting.
Prevent constipation and flatulence.
Warm hip-level baths may help relieve ureteral spasm.
During fragment passage, pain may vary. Pain must be managed with prescribed analgesics.
The need for repeat sessions is determined at follow-up examination after 10–15 days.
Everything you need to know about ESWL treatment.
Let's debunk common misconceptions about lithotripsy.
ESWL is extremely painful and requires full surgery
Click to see the truth →ESWL is non-invasive and virtually painless.
Click to see the myth →Kidney stones always come back after ESWL
Click to see the truth →ESWL effectively destroys stones. Recurrence depends on lifestyle.
Click to see the myth →Shock waves damage the kidneys permanently
Click to see the truth →Modern lithotripters use precisely focused, low-energy waves.
Click to see the myth →You need weeks of bed rest after ESWL
Click to see the truth →Most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 days.
Click to see the myth →Drinking beer helps dissolve stones
Click to see the truth →Alcohol doesn't dissolve stones and can dehydrate you.
Click to see the myth →ESWL is only for kidney stones
Click to see the truth →Modern ESWL is effective for ureteral stones too.
Click to see the myth →Watch real lithotripsy sessions performed at our center.
