Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy of middle ureteral calculi: ventral shock wave application.

A total of 150 patients presenting with stone in the middle iliac ureter were treated with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy using a Dornier HM-4 lithotriptor. For adequate radiological stone visualization and excellent fragmentation, the prone position was used in all patients. In 45 patients (30%) an ureteral stent was placed before treatment. The overall success rate was 82% (123 of 150 patients). All patients were treated on an outpatient basis without anesthesia.