Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for upper urinary tract stones using the Dornier Lithotripter Compact: an experience in Japan

Between May 1997 and February 1998, 40 cases of renal stones and 40 cases of ureteral stones in 60 males and 20 females were treated with the Dornier Lithotripter Compact. The size of the stones ranged from 5 mm to 80 mm. Three patients required epidural anesthesia and 4 patients required a ureteral stent. Fragmentation of the stones was observed in all patients. After 1 month, the efficacy and stone free rates were 91% and 54%, respectively. After 3 months, they were 91% and 68%, respectively. There were no serious side effects such as pyelonephritis, perirenal hematomas, and massive hematuria. In conclusion, the Dornier Lithotripter Compact proved to be a safe and highly effective lithotripter for the treatment of renal and ureteral stones.