The effect of newer generation lithotripsy upon renal function assessed by nuclear scintigraphy.

PURPOSE

We studied the effect of second generation lithotripsy on renal function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated 42 patients with unilateral renal calculi by nuclear renography, serum creatinine levels, renal ultrasonography and plain radiographs.

RESULTS

There was no significant change in glomerular filtration rate at 1 or 3 months. Split function of the treated kidneys was lower at 1 month (mean 47.2%, p = 0.01) and 3 months (47.3%, p = 0.01) than before treatment (49.1%). A greater than 5% decrease in split function of the treated kidney occurred at 1 month in 6 patients (16.2%) and at 3 months in 3. Of the patients 23 (62.2%) were stone-free and 11 had residual fragments less than 4 mm., with a 19% retreatment rate for an overall success rate of 91.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Newer generation lithotriptors may limit renal damage while permitting satisfactory treatment of renal calculi.