Since July 1999 we conduced an experience in the treatment of the tendinous pathology, using a portable shock-wave lithotriptor, designed for low energy. It's a non-invasive treatment without the aid of local anestetic (in the majority of cases).

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

We examinated 142 patients (85 males and 57 females, average 52.5 years) in the period from July 1999 to March 2002 using the "Orthima" lithotriptor marketed by "Direx Medical Systems". This is a lithotriptor of electro-hydraulic type. The pulsation frequency is 120 pulses/minute and the energy supplied can vary from 0.0003 up to 0.5 mj/mm2 with a maximum penetration capacity up to 65 mm. In all cases a preliminary diagnostic examination was carried out (RX or, when necessary, US and/or NMR). From January 2002, before and after each treatment, we've used a clinical evaluation forms. Each treatment includes a series of sessions varying, cases by cases, between 5 and 10 with intervals of 3-5 days, depending on the clinical progress and the type of pathology.

RESULTS:

The target was pain absence-reduction. We obtained satisfying results in 68% (97 patients) of cases and lack of success in 31% (45 cases) of the patients treated.

CONCLUSIONS:

Keeping in mind the repeatability of the therapeutic cycles, usually well tolerated by the patients, we also believe that low-energy shock waves therapy represent an important alternative to other conservative anthalgic treatments for common people and particularly for athletes.