Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL). A treatment synopsis

ESWL is a new technology allowing calculi in the genitourinary tract to be fragmented and passed spontaneously. With this procedure possible on an out-patient basis, the positive impact on patient morbidity and lost time from work can be extremely beneficial. However, the impact on health care costs has yet to be determined. With further experience and newer technology, many operative procedures may well become obsolete.