Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: evolution, indications, contraindications and complications.

Abstract

Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy has proved to be an effective, safe and minimally invasive method of
treatment of urolithiasis for four decades. Despite the rapid improvement of endourological equipment, ESWL
is still relevant today and is considered to be the main treatment method for urolithiasis in many guidelines.
In search of more in-depth information about the history of this method, clinical application, limitations and
possible complications, we analyzed such foreign sources as PubMed, Embase, Medline, e-library. According
to the data obtained, it was found that numerous factors related to the patient and the technique influence
the success of treatment. The distance from the skin to the stone, stone density and composition, size and
location of the stone in the urinary system all affect the frequency of “stone-free”. A slower speed with a gradual
increase in tension, precise pointing, and proper connection help to improve stone fragmentation and reduce
the risk of complications.