Biliary Lithotripsy: A Perspective

Excerpt

The initial reports (1, 2) on gallstone fragmentation using extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy have been received with almost unbridled enthusiasm by some physicians and hospital administrators. Others, however, have viewed the data with considerable skepticism and concern. The technology is exciting, but its potential usefulness is difficult to assess. More than a dozen different lithotriptors have been developed, nine of which are currently being tested under research protocols in 80 medical centers in the United States. None of these devices has yet received the approval of the Food and Drug Administration for biliary lithotripsy.

The Technology All lithotriptors fragment gallstones using