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[Urological treatment of urolithiasis in children]
Insights
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a safe, effective first-line treatment for pediatric urolithiasis, clearing up to 85% of stones. Long-term effects of repeated ESWL on kidney health in children require further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Nephrology
- Medical Technology
Abstract:
Endo-urological techniques and extracorporeal shock waves lithotripsy (ESWL) have dramatically improved the management of urolithiasis in children. ESWL has been shown to be safe and effective, achieving a stone clearance rate up to 85% with minimal short-term morbidity, and this non-invasive method has become the first-line treatment for most upper urinary tract calculi in children. However, it long-term effects on kidney function and growth remain unknown, and its repeated use should therefore be restricted. Endo-urological techniques, mainly percutaneous procedures and ureteroscopy, and surgical procedures, are only indicated for large multiple stones, or secondary stones needing simultaneous treatment of an underlying uropathy.