When is percutaneous management of urinary tract calculi preferred over ESWL extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy?
ESWL is the sole therapy used in approximately 90% of patients with symptomatic urinary tract calculi. Percutaneous management is preferred, however, in patients with a large stone burden. Percutaneous management may also be used as an adjunct to ESWL if large stone fragments remain or if obstruction occurs after ESWL.
