A kidney stone can interrupt urine flow, a condition which falls under the medical field of study called urology. This specialty field that studies and focuses on conditions of the male and female urinary tract. A urologist is a physician who studies disorders of the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and male reproductive organs. A urologist diagnosis, treats, and manages urological disorders. The answer?

Lithotripsy – a non-invasive procedure to treat kidney stones.

Urology and the study of urinary function may also involve study in other fields, including nephrology, gynecology, and oncology. Dozens of tests and procedures are utilized by physicians and specialists to diagnose and treat urological problems. If you’ve ever suffered through the pain of a kidney stone, you’ll want to know about this procedure. Lithotripsy is considered one of the safest and most effective methods of treating kidney stones, whether they’re calcium or sodium based.

A lithotripsy is a noninvasive procedure that treats kidney stones. Shock waves or ultrasonic energy (the therapy is called extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, or ESWL) are directed over the stone’s location after undergoing a procedure called fluoroscopy or ultrasound.

Unfortunately, the cost of a lithotripsy procedure in the U.S. is staggering, considering the size of the tiny stone that can cause so much potential damage and pain. In the U.S., costs for the procedure average about $17,000, though you can find some for about $5,000, depending on the size of the stone. India, you can receive the same procedure for about $1,300, and in Singapore for about $2,650.

Visit information and medical provider resources such as PlacidWay to learn about treatments, procedures and accredited facilities and certified medical providers around the world. Take the time to research, learn and ask questions.