Comparing 60 versus 120 shocks per minute for shock-wave lithotripsy of solitary renal calculi: A controlled randomized study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to compare the difference in outcome of shock-wave lithotripsy (SWL) using a slow rate of 60 shocks per minute versus a rapid rate of 120 shocks per minute generated by an electromagnetic lithotripter for renal calculi. Methods: From May 2017 to June 2019, 156 patients ( Mage=38.7 years) with single radio-opaque renal stones smaller than 20 mm were included and randomly divided into two groups: group A, 78 patients who received 60 shocks per minute; and group B, 78 patients who received 120 shocks per minute. Patients were radiologically reviewed at 3 months for an outcome. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between mean stone area treated ( p=0.222) or additional analgesic use in the form of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA; alfentanil; p=0.82). A successful outcome was defined by fragments smaller than 4 mm or stone-free status. In group A, 60% of patients had a successful outcome compared with 61.4% in group B ( p=0.869) following a single treatment. Post-treatment complications were similar in both groups at 12% for group A and 10.7% for group B ( p=0.797). Conclusions: There was no statistically significant difference between the delivery of 60 and 120 shocks per minute during SWL for the treatment of solitary renal stones with a mean stone area of 62 mm2 regarding the outcome, complications or PCA use when using a Dornier Compact Delta II lithotripter.