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[Complications with portable ESWL--a multicenter study]
D M Wilbert1, A Heinz, D Jocham
1Abteilung Urologie, Klinikum Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen.
Der Urologe. Ausg. A
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Portable lithotripsy units offer a viable alternative for urological departments. Studies show that infrequent use of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) with these units does not increase complication rates.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Portable lithotripsy units are increasingly used by urological departments lacking in-house systems.
- This approach is often adopted when purchasing a dedicated system is not feasible.
- Concerns exist regarding potential increases in complications with infrequent use of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the complication rates associated with the use of mobile lithotripsy units in urological departments.
- To determine if infrequent application of ESWL impacts major complication incidence.
Main Methods:
- Data on major complications were collected from 54 urological departments utilizing mobile lithotripsy units between 1993 and 1995.
- A total of 12,901 ESWL treatments were analyzed.
Main Results:
- A total of 85 major complications (0.66%) were recorded across all treatments.
- Intrarenal or perirenal hematomas constituted the majority of complications (64 cases).
- No fatal complications occurred, and only three patients required subsequent nephrectomy.
Conclusions:
- The use of mobile lithotripsy units is associated with a low rate of major complications.
- Infrequent application of ESWL does not appear to increase complication rates compared to high-volume centers.
- These findings support the use of portable lithotripsy as a safe alternative in various urological settings.