Preliminary results of a randomized controlled trial of prophylactic shock wave lithotripsy for small asymptomatic renal calyceal stones

Abstract

Prophylactic ESWL for small asymptomatic renal calyceal stones does not appear to offer any advantage to patients in terms of stone-free rate, quality of life, renal function, symptoms or hospital admissions. However, a policy of observation is associated with a greater risk of requiring more invasive procedures. A longer follow-up is required to assess the validity of these preliminary findings.