Is Pre-Shock Wave Lithotripsy Stenting Necessary for Ureteral Stones With Moderate or Severe Hydronephrosis?

Pretreatment stenting provides no advantage over in situ shock wave lithotripsy for significantly obstructing ureteral calculi. Shock wave lithotripsy is reasonable initial therapy for ureteral stones 2 cm or less that cause moderate or severe hydronephrosis.