After the procedure is completed you will be given instructions to follow upon discharge. These instructions will ensure a more successful, safe and comfortable outcome.

The process of passing stone fragments may take hours, days, or weeks. Every patient is unique and it is very important to follow the instructions given when leaving the facility. This not only promotes your safety but also aides your physician in monitoring progress following treatment.

Most patients will pass blood in the urine after the procedure. This is to be expected. Some patients, especially those with large stones, experience discomfort, fever or intestinal upset as the stone particles pass. Discomfort levels vary from none to a level of pain requiring narcotic pain relievers; however, most patients have very little discomfort and mild pain tablets are usually all that are needed. It will take from two weeks to three months for most of the granular particles to be washed from the kidney.

Contact your physician immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Heavy bleeding or bleeding that is not clearing up after 24 hours of the procedure
• Pain not controlled by prescribed medication
• Fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit, or 38 degrees Celsius
• Continuous Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty urinating

Patients undergoing lithotripsy will normally be outpatients and be able to go home the same day. After treatment, a diet high in liquids will be recommended to aid in passage of the stone fragments. Total recovery time after lithotripsy is usually less than one week, however stone fragments may pass for several weeks to months following treatment.

During the months following treatment, there is an excellent possibility that you will pass all of your stone fragments. However, even if you do not, in most cases these stones cause no symptoms and may not require further treatment.

Remember to make your Return Appointment with your urologist to follow-up on your care after your procedure.