The Treatment of Ureteric Calculi before and after the Introduction of Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy

Abstract

Indications and treatment results of ureteric calculi one year before and one year after the introduction of ESWL were analysed in 169 consecutive patients. Sex, age, former stone operation, stone localisation and stone size were not significantly different in the two groups. Before ESW1 47% of the patients received treatment against 54% after the introduction (p > 0.3). There was no tendency towards treatment of smaller calculi. Expectedly, the number of endoscopies and ureterolithotomies was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). The treatment period (from first contact till final control) was longer with ESWL, but not significantly. Judged from the length of the hospital stay there was no major economic benefit from ESWL. In conclusion, ESWL with a second generation lithotriptor is suitable for in situ treatment of ureteric calculi. It should be first choice for ureteric calculi.