Comparison of Efficacy of Shock Wave Lithotripsy in Different Age Groups

Abstract

Objective: Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) is a safe and effective treatment for renal stones. The success rate of SWL has been shown to be lower in the elderly populations. However, in these previous studies, the SWL devices and techniques were not compatible with the current devices and techniques. In this study, it was aimed to compare the success rates of SWL in different age groups and evaluate the effect of age on SWL outcomes. Materials and Methods: Data of 472 patients who have undergone SWL was evaluated. The patients were grouped into 3 age categories: 18-40 (n=159), 41-64 (n=180), and ≥65 (n=133) years. Data regarding stone location, stone size, number of SWL sessions, and success rates were recorded. The groups were compared for success rates. Additionally, logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of age on success rates of SWL treatment. Results: The success rates in patients in age categories 18-40 years, 41-64 years and ≥65 years were 75.4%, 75.6% and 69.1%, respectively (p=0.37). In the logistic regression analysis, age was not found to be associated with success rates. In the multivariate analysis, greater stone size [odds ratio (OR): 1.59, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10-4.24, p=0.04] and lower pole location (OR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.110-5.327, p=0.04) were found to be associated with lower success rates. Conclusion: There were no significant differences in the rate of success of SWL treatment in different age groups. In patients over 65 years of age, SWL treatment should not be avoided with the assumption of lower success rates.

Keywords

• Shock wave lithotripsy
• age
• stone free rate