ABBR: ESWL

The fragmentation of kidney stones with an extracorporeal shock wave lithotriptor. In addition to breaking up gallstones and kidney stones, shock wave lithotripsy may be used in some orthopedic applications (orthotripsy), e.g., in the treatment of nonunion of fractures and bone spurs.

ESWL for gallstones or kidney stones is contraindicated during pregnancy.