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Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy and litholytic therapy in cholelithiasis
1Department of Surgery, Dokuz Eylül University Medical School, Izmir, Turkey.
The British Journal of Surgery
|March 1, 1992
Summary
Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) combined with litholytic therapy effectively treated gallstones in 100 patients. Complete stone clearance was achieved in most patients, with a low recurrence rate observed.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Technology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Gallstones are a common condition requiring effective treatment.
- Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) and litholytic therapy are established treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined ESWL and chenodeoxycholic acid therapy for gallstones.
- To assess stone clearance rates and complication incidence.
Main Methods:
- 100 patients with gallstones were treated over 16 months.
- Treatment involved ESWL (Lithostar Plus) and oral chenodeoxycholic acid.
- Lytic therapy continued for 3 months post-stone disappearance.
Main Results:
- Complete stone disappearance occurred in 82% of patients with single stones ≤20 mm.
- 50% clearance was observed in patients with larger or multiple stones.
- Complications included acute cholecystitis (3) and pancreatitis (2).
- Recurrence was noted in 2 of 11 patients (18%) after 4 months.
Conclusions:
- Combined ESWL and chenodeoxycholic acid therapy is effective for gallstone dissolution.
- Treatment success is dependent on stone size and number.
- The therapy is associated with a low rate of serious complications and recurrence.