Evaluation of outcome following lithotripsy

Shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) is considered as an initial option for a significant proportion of urinary tract stones. Despite efforts for standardized terminology and methodology, published studies on lithotripsy outcome are very different. This review will focus on a brief description of evidence-based medicine and recent literature results on SWL outcome.

The introduction of hierarchy in scientific evidence is becoming more widespread. Various grading systems have attempted to rank recommendations according to type and amount of evidence. Different levels of evidence have been created for therapy, diagnosis and prognosis. Various authors have developed scoring systems and identified radiographic parameters to predict SWL outcome. The long-term safety of lithotripsy on renal function has been demonstrated. Randomized controlled trials and meta-analysis have shown that medical expulsive therapy and a slower shockwave rate will improve SWL outcome.

Evidence-based medicine is rapidly becoming an indispensable part of everyday medical practice. Common terminology is necessary for proper evaluation of SWL. Different types of studies are required to investigate efficacy, compare SWL to other options, complications and so on. Randomized clinical trials are of the highest value; matched-pair analyses and well designed controlled studies can offer significant help.