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Swirling sound waves used to rip apart kidney stones | Scientists have devised a method of non-invasively tearing the objects apart, using what are known as "acoustic vortex beams."


The treatment of kidney stones could soon be getting much faster, easier, and safer. Scientists have devised a method of non-invasively tearing the objects apart, using what are known as "acoustic vortex beams."

For several decades now, doctors have utilized a non-surgical technique called extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy(ESWL) to break up kidney stones so they can be passed with the urine. Currently being developed by scientists from Spain's Universitat Politècnica de València (Valencia Polytechnic University) and the Spanish National Research Council, it utilizes a portable machine to generate swirling ultrasound waves known as acoustic vortex beams. An experienced freelance writer, he previously obtained an English BA from the University of Saskatchewan, then spent over 20 years working in various markets as a television reporter, producer and news videographer.

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