[Lithiasis of the distal ureter: ESWL or URS]

A nephritic colic is the clinical picture that evidences the presence of ureteral stones, the natural evolution being their spontaneous passing. Stones in the distal ureter are self-eliminated in about 71-80% cases. The adoption of a "watchful wait" involves an uncertain occupational and medical evolution since, although in some cases the stones will pass with no problems, in other instances they can result in severe, life threatening situations for the patient's health (intractable pain, anuria or sepsis). When a decision is made to treat the condition, there are two choices available: "in situ" SWEL (extracorporeal lithotrity), or URS (ureterorenoscopy), long-standing conflicting techniques each with its own advantages and disadvantages, which should now be considered complementary. SWEL's major disadvantage is the number of repetitions required and the long wait, sometimes even months, until the last fragment is passed. The greater strength of URS is that it can be resolutive in just one episode (95% cases), thus avoiding the obstruction problems that can arise after SWEL. In the Lithiasis-Lithotrity Unit of FJD, SWEL is the first therapeutical option for the treatment of stones in the distal ureter. SWEL and URS are equally likely to be performed although SWEL is the initial choice for efficiency reasons that are explained. We achieve 93.6% positive results with a 1.82% re-SWEL rate (retreatment), 0.60 coefficient of efficiency (EQ) and 0.69 modified coefficient of efficiency (EQM) (Chart). No serious complications were recorded. Morbidity is variable with little clinical significance.

Distal ureter lithiasis can be treated with either URS and SWEL, both considered "different and complementary". The choice in each particular case and within each hospital will depend on availability of means to perform one or the other, equipment's efficiency, skill of the urologist, patient's preference and cost of each treatment.