The technique of Lithotripsy is basically split into two methods, The Intracorporeal Lithotripsy and Extracorporeal Lithotripsy.

Intracorporeal Lithotripsy:

Intracorporeal Lithotripsy (Which means breaking a stone by entering the body) uses Endoscopic apparatuses which could include ultrasonic, electro-hydraulic (EHL), and mechanical devices, as well as various lasers. These instruments are passed through the working channel of the endoscope to fragment stones into extractable pieces after entering the body either through a small hole made in the body or through opening like the urinary tract. Baskets and graspers are used during intracorporeal lithotripsy to immobilize stones and to remove stone fragments after the stone has been fragmented either by small impacts or lasers.

Extracorporeal Lithotripsy:

Unlike Intracorporeal Lithotripsy, Extracorporeal shock wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a technique to fragment stones without entering the body. Focussed high energy shock waves or pressure waves are used to fragment renal stones by letting these pressure shock waves enter the body to a predestined point (Typically a kidney stone) this is achieved by making a coupling between the patient body and a focussed energy source of ESWL equipment. Two to three thousand shock waves are administered in about 40 to 50 minute's treatment duration which constantly hit the calculus (stone) and fragments it into fine particles. These fragments pass of in urine in normal course.