A basket-like device may be passed through the tube to grasp and withdraw the stone. Instruments that produce some form of energy, such as laser beams, can also be introduced through this instrument to shatter the stone. Kidney stone patients should consult their doctors to decide which method is best for them. This includes doctor s fees, charges for x-rays, laboratory and hospital services, and fee for use of the lithotripter machine. The patient s insurance should be contacted to make sure that costs are covered.
Treatment is available at many hospitals, outpatient centers and, sometimes even in mobile units.
For information about where to have lithotripsy done in your area, contact your doctor, local hospital or health care facility, or the local medical society or National Kidney Foundation office. Kidney stones affect more than one million Americans each year. Although a fair amount is known about kidney stones, we still do not know the exact reasons why stones form. People who have had more than one kidney stone are likely to form another. Therefore, prevention is very important.