Non-operative management of gallstones--a preliminary review

We describe our initial experience with extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy, direct solvent dissolution with methyl tert-butyl ether and mechanical extraction, in 17 symptomatic patients without significant gall-bladder wall disease using existing criteria for selection. Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy and mechanical extraction are promising techniques. Methyl tert-butyl ether therapy has been fraught with difficulty.