Extensive retroperitoneal hematoma following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy with second generation lithotriptor.

A patient with extensive retroperitoneal hematoma after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) with a second generation lithotriptor is presented. Apart from bilateral ESWL for renal calculi in 1987 the patient had a negative history of previous renal disease or risk factors associated with hemorrhage following ESWL. Ultimately surgery was required to control bleeding from a capsular artery. The kidney could be salvaged. The shock wave characteristics of the different lithotriptors are discussed and the cases of subcapsular hemorrhage after ESWL reviewed.