The complications of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy: management and prevention

Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy has been shown to be a safe and effective method of treating most upper urinary tract stones. Major complications, although few, include haemorrhage, septicaemia, "Steinstrasse" formation and cardiac arrhythmias. The experience from 600 consecutive cases is reviewed and methods of prevention are discussed.