Acute complications during and after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy

Abstract

Objectives: ESWL is an effective noninvasive method to treat urolithiasis. Only in rare occasions, complica-tions requiring treatment have been described. Methods: We report three acute major complications during and after ESWL using a Siemens Lithostar plus model (Retroperitoneal haematoma - Rupture of spleen - Car-diac arrest) and compare our experience with the literature. Conclusion: The rate of clinically relevant compli-cations is very love. To recognize severe complications laboratory examination and a sonographic control should be performed after each ESWL.

Keywords

• Urolithiasis; ESWL; Retroperitoneal Haematoma; Rupture of Spleen; Cardiac Arrest.