A new study led by Dr. Ben Chew at Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute highlights Break Wave Lithotripsy (BWL) as a groundbreaking, low-barrier treatment for kidney stones. Unlike traditional extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), BWL is portable, non-invasive, and does not require sedation, making it a more accessible option for patients—especially those in remote areas.

BWL works by using focused sound waves to break kidney stones into smaller fragments without the need for anesthesia or large hospital-based equipment. The technology can be integrated with existing ultrasound machines, providing a faster and less complex alternative to ESWL.

In the first human study, published in The Journal of Urology, 44 patients were treated with BWL. Results showed that 88% of kidney stones were successfully reduced in size, and 58% of patients were completely stone-free after treatment.

With kidney stones affecting about 1 in 10 Canadians, this minimally invasive technology could significantly improve patient care and access across the province.

Although BWL and ESWL are similarly effective, BWL cannot pass through bone or air, which may limit its use in some cases. Dr. Chew expects both treatments will continue to be offered, with BWL being the preferred option when stone location allows for easier access. For more details, visit VCHRI article.