How Effective is ESWL in Treating Pediatric Urinary Stones?
ESWL has been shown to be highly effective in treating pediatric urinary stones, with success rates varying depending on the size and location of the stone. Many studies report stone clearance rates of 70-90% for appropriately selected cases. Ongoing follow-up is essential to ensure complete stone clearance and to monitor for recurrence, which can be a concern in some children.
In conclusion, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is a valuable and effective option for the treatment of urinary stones in the pediatric population. It offers a less invasive alternative to surgery and has a favorable safety profile when performed by experienced healthcare providers. Careful patient selection, thorough pre-procedure evaluation, and diligent post-procedure follow-up are critical to ensuring optimal outcomes for children undergoing ESWL.
