Observation with follow-up
Selected ureteral stones may be monitored when symptoms are controlled, infection is absent and kidney function is acceptable. Observation needs a defined follow-up and reassessment plan.
Home / Office ESWL
Kidney stone treatment options in NYC
Compare observation, office shockwave lithotripsy and other stone procedures. Your imaging and health guide the treatment and facility that fit your situation.
Plan your kidney stone evaluation
Bring your scan images and reports, discharge papers and medication list. Our team will confirm your appointment, office and preparation instructions.
Compare stone treatment options · Check ESWL suitability · Prepare for your treatment visit · Plan stone prevention
Compare the approaches before choosing a procedure
Shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL)
Shockwaves break a suitable stone from outside the body. Fragments still need to clear, and follow-up establishes progress; another treatment may be needed.
Ureteroscopy
A small scope passes through the urinary tract to treat a stone, sometimes using a laser and extraction tools. A temporary ureteral stent may be part of the plan.
Percutaneous stone treatment
Selected larger or more complex kidney stones may need treatment through an access tract into the kidney. The stone burden, anatomy and health risks guide this discussion.
NY Litho provides evaluation and appropriate office ESWL. When another approach is more suitable, we discuss the next step and appropriate treatment facility.
Office ESWL: before, during and after treatment
An external, incision-free approach for suitable stones, with specialist evaluation, an individual anesthesia plan and follow-up.
Before treatment
We review your imaging, medications and health to decide whether ESWL is appropriate.
During treatment
Focused shockwaves reach the stone from outside your body. Our office protocol allows clothes-on treatment; preparation and anesthesia are individualized.
Stents
A stent is not routinely needed for ESWL. Some patients still need drainage or a stent for safety.
After treatment
Fragments pass afterward. Follow-up checks progress; another session may be needed.
Come in for a kidney stone evaluation
Bring your imaging and hospital records. We review your stone’s size, location and density, your symptoms and your health, then recommend a plan. ESWL suitability and timing are individual.
(212) 991-9991When to seek urgent care
Fever or chills with stone symptoms, inability to urinate, persistent vomiting or uncontrolled pain require urgent medical assessment. An infected blockage is an emergency; do not wait for an office ESWL appointment.
A simpler treatment day, when ESWL is right for you.
No incision. No scope inside the urinary tract.
Focused shockwaves reach the stone from outside your body. Fragments then pass in the urine.
Stay in your own clothes.
For our office ESWL protocol, you can remain in your own clothes; the team adjusts clothing at the treatment area as needed for skin contact and imaging. Preparation depends on your care plan.
A stent is rarely needed in our selected ESWL patients.
Dr. Shusterman describes stents as uncommon in his selected office ESWL patients. This is practice experience, not a measured percentage or a promise. A stent may still be needed for blockage, infection or difficulty passing fragments.
Fast visit. Individual preparation.
Your appointment includes imaging review, treatment and recovery. If your plan uses sedation, follow fasting instructions, arrange an escort and do not drive afterward. The team confirms timing before your visit.
What NYLitho offers after a hospital visit
Use these questions when comparing follow-up options. Services at other practices vary; ask them directly.
| What to ask | NYLitho care |
|---|---|
| How soon can I be evaluated? | Urgent appointment requests are triaged; our team confirms the earliest appropriate opening. |
| Can you check whether the stone passed? | Office ultrasound, review of prior imaging and CT when indicated, with a follow-up plan. |
| Can I try to pass it safely? | Observation and medication when suitable, including Flomax for selected ureteral stones; review passage and kidney safety. |
| What if pain returns? | Reassessment and IV Toradol for suitable patients; emergency hospital care when warning signs require it. |
| Can treatment be done in the office? | Dornier ESWL with in-office anesthesia for suitable stones; expedited scheduling after assessment and preparation. |
| Will I need a stent or surgery? | A stent is not routinely needed for ESWL. Some patients still need drainage or a stent for safety. |
What if pain returns?
Will I need a stent or surgery?Fever or chills, inability to urinate, uncontrolled pain or repeated vomiting need immediate emergency assessment. Do not wait for an office appointment.
Request urgent stone care