[Anesthesia for lithotripsy]

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy has become the standard method of treating renal stone disease. The appropriate choice of anaesthetic technique depends on the shock wave technic mode. Recent modifications of lithotriptors have reduced the physiological consequences of the procedure and most often these treatments can be performed without local or general anaesthesia. However, some sedation/analgesia may be necessary and a good knowledge of anaesthesia for lithotripsy remains most useful so as to meet any particular requirements.