Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the success rate of shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) and possible effects on the anxiety status of patients.Methods: Anxiety status of 128 patients was evaluated using State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) scale. Three groups were created depending on stone condition: Group 1, completely stone-free; Group 2, asymptomatic residual fragments; and Group 3, fragments requiring additional procedures. Anxiety was evaluated comparatively according to analgesic need and emergency department referrals.
Results:Mean score in all 3 groups 1 month after treatment showed significant decrease; however, this decrease was smaller in Group 3 than the other 2 groups. Pairwise evaluation of mean STAI scores revealed significant difference between Group 3 and other groups. Similarly, analgesic need and emergency department referral rate were higher in Group 3.
Conclusion:Residual fragments after SWL procedure may affect the anxiety status of the treated patients due to both symptoms they experience and need for additional procedures. We believe that detailed information should be provided to patients with respect to procedure, possible complications, and potential need for additional treatment.