Renal function following extracorporeal lithotripsy in children.

Although extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) has revolutionised the management of urinary calculous disease, the long-term effects of ESWL on renal function are not known. This study of 18 children demonstrated a mild, statistically insignificant decrease of 15% in DTPA measured glomerular filtration rate following ESWL. In view of this, we recommend that pretherapy and posttherapy estimates of renal function be obtained in all patients undergoing ESWL. Long-term follow-up is necessary to further quantify the effects of ESWL on the developing kidney.