Techniques and Results of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy in the Ureter

Abstract

After Jenkins introduced the prone position for extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), we described a new, easier way to position the patient in order to reach stones in the iliac ureter. The whole ureter has now become accessible for ESWL, and ureteral ESWL has excellent results ranging from 78% to 89% stone-free patients 3 months after treatment. The extensive use of double-J stents strongly contributed to these results. ESWL is now the first-choice therapy for ureteral stones. Ureterorenoscopy and open surgery can be reserved for the most resistant ones.