Emergency shock wave lithotripsy for ureteric stones.
OBJECTIVE
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy has been used for over 2 decades, but its application in the acute setting remains under review. With continuing refinements to the technology, it is timely to review its efficacy in the emergency setting.


RESULTS
The procedure has an overall low morbidity and is generally well tolerated. Success rates of 70-80% are reported in a number of studies, with relatively low complication rates. Although much attention has been given to the improvements in the outcome of ureteroscopic stone clearance, the benefits of a noninvasive procedure which does not require general anaesthesia may be appealing and indeed preferable for many patients.


CONCLUSIONS
This should remain a valid alternative treatment option offered to patients, and its provision may be restricted by resource availability rather than clinical evidence. Centres should be identified that can offer an emergency extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy service and patients informed of outcome data from such centres.
Dasgupta
Ranan
R
Department of Urology, Guy's Hospital, London, UK. ranandg@yahoo.co.uk
Hegarty
Nicholas
N
Thomas
Kay
K
D004638:Emergency Treatment; D006801:Humans; D008096:Lithotripsy; D014514:Ureteral Calculi / Q000628:therapy*