Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for gallstones: an AKUH experience

ABSTRACT

At the Aga Khan University Hospital were have used the Cornier MPL, 9000 for extra corporeal shock wave lithotripsy [ESWL] of age stones as well as renal stones. Between November 1988 and July 1990, 23 patients with gall stones underwent ESWL. The criteria for selection of gall stone lithotripsy were history of biliary pain, absence of cakifications, a total stone bulk of less than 3 cms. diameter and a functioning gall bladder. All patients received adjuvant treatment with oral bile salts. Disintegration of stones to sludge was achieved routinely. Ten patients [43.5%] had complete resolution of their stones is a mean interval of 20 months [SD 0.15] after commencement of treatment. When the stone burken was less than 2 cms diameter nine of the ten patients had single stone. Twelve patients [52.2%] who were followed up for a mean period of 7.2 months [SD 0.66] continue to have debris in the gall bladder. Two of these patients underwent cholecystectomy for continuing pain; the other ten were lost to follow up. One patients [4.3%] fail to report after first session of ESWL. There were no complications