What will happen?
After reporting to the reception area, you will be escorted to the patient's area. A simple checklist will be completed and the procedure will be fully explained. Any further questions you may have will be answered.
You may be sent for a simple abdominal X-ray prior to treatment. After changing into a Hospital gown you will be given some pre-medication (to make the treatment as comfortable as possible). You will then be escorted into the treatment area where you will meet the Senior Radiographer, who will position you on the table (this may be on your front, back or side depending on the position of the stone). Gel will be applied to your skin and care will be taken to ensure that you are comfortable. We have a small tape/CD player - please feel free to bring along some music!
From this point it is very important to keep quite still and to breathe as gently as you can. Focusing on the stone may take a few minutes before treatment begins. Each pressure wave is accompanied by a 'clicking' sound and the sensation is often described as though you were being flicked on the skin with an elastic band. Treatment normally lasts about 30-40 minutes, being structured to your individual needs.
Most patients describe treatment as being only slightly uncomfortable, but should it ever get too painful it is important to inform the Radiographer.
Our Radiographers are always happy to explain the treatment in greater detail and it may even be possible to observe the effect of the treatment on either the Ultrasound or X-ray monitors!
After your treatment, you will be escorted to the recovery area. There you may rest and you will be asked to drink plenty of fluids. Our nursing staff will inform you of a safe time for you to be discharged and give you details of your follow-up clinic appointment.
