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Definition of Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: A technique for shattering a kidney stone or gallstone with a shock wave that is produced outside the body. Anesthesia may be necessary to control the pain, depending on the size and density of the stone and on the energy of the shock wave needed to break