MEASUREMENT OF SHOCK-WAVE PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION OF EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCK-WAVE LITHOTRIPTER USING PRESSURE-SENSITIVE PAPER - PRACTICAL USEFULNESS AND LIMITATIONS

A new, method for evaluating shock wave pressure distribution of extra corporeal shock wave lithotripters, using pressure-sensitive paper has been developed. It is a simple method to visualize the shock wave pre ssure distribution and has a better spatial resolution than the hydrop hone. The pressure-sensitive paper can be used to visually detect whet her the focal point is on the correct position, and to detect changes of pressure distribution. Additionally, the relationship between litho tripter power and integrated density, as a new evaluating value shows linearity. Therefore, this method is useful for quality assurance of l ithotripters at hospitals.