Lithotripsy Cost in United Arab Emirates

The cost of lithotripsy in the UAE typically ranges from $2,000 to $18,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Lithotripsy means breaking up stones, most commonly by shockwaves aimed from outside the body (extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy). In the UAE, the price depends on:

• Number of sessions: some stones need more than one.
• Stone size and site
• Imaging: X-ray or ultrasound targeting.
• Pain relief: usually without general anaesthetic.

The NHS lists three main procedures for kidney stones: shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) from outside the body, ureteroscopy with a laser passed up the urinary tract under general anaesthetic, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) through the back for large stones. Possible complications include infection, bleeding and injury to the ureter.

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust describes shockwaves focused on the stone through the skin, often without general anaesthetic. Fragments pass in the urine over the following days and weeks.

Planned urological surgery requires insurer prior approval under basic UAE plans, and co-payments apply.