Evaluation of protocols on the use of analgesics for pain management in patients with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)

: Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy-related pain is the largest limiting factor in this technique. Our study aimed to compare the effectiveness of different types of analgesics for pain management used during ESWL sessions. We conducted a prospective study of 300 patients with urinary lithiasis justifying ESWL treatment. The patients were randomized to three groups: group I, included 100 patients who received intramuscular injection of 2cc of physiological saline solution (placebo), group II included 100 patients who received intramuscular injection of ketoprofen 100mg while group III included 100 patients who received lidocaine and prilocaine topical cream. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to assess pain 10 minutes after and at the end of the session. Mean VAS score 10 minutes after and at the end of ESWL session was 3.7 and 4.91 respectively. There was no significant difference among the three groups with respect to: epidemiological data (age, sex, BMI, patient's history) and the characteristics of the renal stone (side, size, location, presence or not of double-J ureteral catheter). Eleven patients in the Group I terminated treatment early, with a significant difference compared to the other groups (p=0.003). VAS score 10 minutes after and at the end of ESWL session was statistically higher in Group I compared to Groups II and III (p < 0.001). Moreover, ESWL session was significantly more effective in Groups (II and III) compared to Group I (p<0.001). Pain treatment is necessary during ESWL sessions. Two painkillers molecules were assessed, which showed good pain control as well as an increase in the effectiveness of lithotripsy.