Shear Wave Elastography for Predicting Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy Outcomes in Pediatric Renal Stones

This prospective study aims to evaluate the role of shear wave elastography (SWE) as a non-invasive and radiation-free tool for predicting the success of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in pediatric patients with renal stones. Currently, computed tomography (CT)-derived Hounsfield units (HU) are used to estimate stone hardness; however, repeated radiation exposure is a concern in children. SWE may provide an alternative method by assessing stone stiffness using ultrasound. Pediatric patients under 18 years with renal stones (6-20 mm) scheduled for ESWL will be included. SWE measurements will be performed prior to treatment, and patients will be followed for 3 months to assess treatment outcomes. The primary outcome is ESWL success, while secondary outcomes include correlation between SWE and HU, number of ESWL sessions required, prediction of stone composition, and assessment of the relationship between SWE measurements and stone composition. This study seeks to determine whether SWE can serve as a reliable predictor of ESWL outcomes, correlate with stone composition, and reduce the need for radiation-based imaging in children.