

Featured Tests and Procedures
Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy
This eMedTV article describes extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy in detail. Also called ESWL, this is the procedure most often used for the treatment of kidney stones, which uses shock waves to them break up.
In some cases, surgery is used to treat kidney stones and stents are then placed to help the ureter heal. This eMedTV page explains why stents for kidney stones are used, the potential complications, and what to expect after a stent has been placed.
This segment of the eMedTV archives describes in detail how a ureteroscopy is performed and what to expect before and after the procedure. It is often recommended for people with kidney stones and allows the doctor to closely examine the ureter.
Featured Conditions and Diseases
Kidney stones develop when certain materials clump together instead of being eliminated in urine. As this eMedTV page explains, the condition can be due to diet or certain medical conditions. Common symptoms and treatment options are also discussed.