Extracorporeal Shockwaves Lithotripsy (SWL): A Practical Guide for Urologists | ||||
| Egyptian Journal of Urology | ||||
| Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 08 January 2024 | ||||
| Document Type: Review Articles | ||||
| DOI: 10.21608/eju.2024.242276.1007 | ||||
 View on SCiNiTO | ||||
| Author | ||||
Ahmed R. EL-Nahas  
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| Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura University | ||||
| Abstract | ||||
| Introduction and Purpose: Extracorporeal shockwaves lithotripsy (SWL) is the treatment of choice for small non-complicated upper urinary tract calculi because of its non-invasive nature. This review is intended to provide practical guidance for urologists to optimize the use of SWL in clinical practice in order to achieve the maximum stone-free rate and minimize the incidence and severity of complications.. Methods: A PubMed search using the keywords SWL, extracorporeal shockwaves, and ESWL was conducted for articles published in the past 20 years. In addition, recent international guidelines of urolithiasis were reviewed. Results: All relevant research articles, reviews and metanalyses were read to construct a clinically oriented guidance for indications, contraindications, pre-SWL preparation, patients’ management during and after SWL session, and methods to improve efficiency. Conclusions: The keys to achieve best stone-free rates with minimal complications after SWL are proper patients’ selection, adherence to guidelines recommendations to improve stone disintegration, and adequate follow-up till elimination of the stone fragments. | ||||
| Keywords | ||||
| SWL; Extracorporeal shockwaves lithotripsy; renal; ureteral; calculi | ||||
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