[Extra-corporeal lithotripsy in children].

Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) constitutes the reference treatment for renal and ureteric stones in adults, but its use and development in children have been accompanied by a certain degree of caution and reticence. A large number of paediatric series have been published since 1986, confirming the efficacy and minimally invasive nature of this technique. Modification of the nature of the shock waves and release onto the market of second and third generation apparatuses have simplified the management of urinary stones in children. However, several questions persist concerning the maximum number of impacts, the recommended interval between two sessions and the long-term effects of shock waves on the growing renal parenchyma. The objective of this study was to review the current state of ESWL in children based on a review of the literature, the GEUP report and our own experience.