Management of urinary tract calculi by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy

From July 1989 to April 1993, Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL) was performed on 642 patients, of which 21 were from the pediatric age group. All treatments were done on a second generation lithotriptor-Siemens Lithostar, which does not require any modification for positioning of children. Fragmentation was achieved in all the patients (100%). A complete stone free rate was achieved in 17/21 patients (80.9%). Three (14.3%) patients had insignificant residual fragments whereas 1 (4.8%) had a residual fragment approximately 4 mm in size. 5640 shocks were required on an average. We have used low energy shockwaves with good results. General anesthesia was required for lithotripsy in only one child. The average fluoro exposure time was 1.6 minutes. We conclude that ESWL is a safe and effective method for treating urinary tract calculi in children.