Impact of learning curve on efficacy of shock wave lithotripsy

Radiol Technol. 2008 Sep;80(1):20-4.

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a radiographer's learning curve on extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) efficacy.

Methods: Five registered technologists who were certified to assist in SWL procedures but had no prior lithotripter experience were evaluated during a 4-year period. Stone-free (no residual fragments on plain radiographic imaging), re-treatment and post-SWL procedure rates were evaluated for the first 3 years of radiographer employment.

Results: The overall stone-free rate increased from 55% (efficiency quotient [EQ] 45) in the first year to 68% (EQ 50) in the third year. The treatment success rate for the lower calyx increased from 50% (EQ 41) in the first year to 62% (EQ 44) in the third year. There was no difference in re-treatment or post-SWL procedure rates.

Conclusion: Efficacy with SWL, as measured by stone-free rates, improved with increasing experience of the radiographer. Ongoing supervision and mentorship might be helpful in the first year of service.

MeSH terms

  • Allied Health Personnel / statistics & numerical data*
  • Disease-Free Survival
  • Employment / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • High-Energy Shock Waves / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Lithotripsy / statistics & numerical data*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Minnesota
  • Prevalence
  • Professional Competence / statistics & numerical data*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome
  • United States / epidemiology
  • Urinary Calculi / epidemiology*
  • Urinary Calculi / therapy*