Introduction

Abstract

The most spectacular and revolutionary development in urological practice in recent times has without question been the successful introduction of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). The research and background of this technique for the non-operative treatment of kidney stones by the Dornier Company is admirably described in this chapter by one of the original medical pioneers, Professor Eisenberger. The machines produced by Dornier in the Federal Republic of Germany have now spread throughout the world, and there are currently approaching 200 in operation in the USA alone. As with any new development, much further research and refinement has been generated, culminating in the rapid appearance of Mark II or second generation machines. Such machines currently appearing on the market are less complex, smaller and cheaper in both capital outlay and running costs than the prototype Dornier machine. The implications are such that most urological centres will acquire their own machine or have ready access to one for the treatment of their patients with stone disease of the upper urinary tract.