Opioid Analgesia in Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy: Fentanyl versus Alfentanil

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Abstract
More than 1,600 patients have been treated by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) under fentanyl analgesia without any complications or severe side-effects. As secondary respiratory depression is still under discussion, we investigated the value of alfentanil - a short-term acting opioid - with special interest in its efficacy and side-effects. Neither fentanyl nor alfentanil significantly influenced blood pressure, respiratory rate and blood gases. With regard to minor side-effects and patients''s acceptance, alfentanil analgesia should be preferred during ESWL treatment.