Abstract: In an arrangement for the generation and focussing of shock waves for purposes of comminution of concrements, wherein the generation is provided by a pair of electrodes, and the focussing is provided by a rotational ellipsoid; the electrodes extend from a sleeve being inserted in the body of the ellipsoid such that the electrodes center on one of the two focal points of the rotational ellipsoid; a positioning device for the electrodes includes a position indicator on the electrode sleeve such as a metal or optical marking on a mechanical actuator having a highly accurately predetermined positional relation to the electrodes; a position sensor on the body of the rotational ellipsoid has a highly accurately determined position in relation to the first focal point; and a circuit is connected to the position sensor to provide a audible and/or visible representation if, and only if, the position indicator has an accurate position related to the sensor as an indication that the electrodes are centered on the first

Abstract: A couch to securely support and keep in place a completely or partially anesthesized patient in a compression-free and strain-free manner, for instance for contact-less comminution of renal calculi, where the patient by means of strongly mutually inclining and individually adjustable rest surfaces (11, 25, 26) in the shoulder area and at the legs is moved into a back position with a slightly raised upper body and angled legs, with a clear back and rectal area, and with placement of the lower arms next to the head so as to assume a stable hollow-back position.

Abstract: An apparatus for comminuting concretions in bodies of living beings with a focusing chamber forming part of an ellipsoid of revolution wherein shock waves can be generated by spark discharge at one of the foci, the body being prone in a tub filled with a liquid, where(a) the focusing chamber is sealed by a high-strength membrane,(b) the focusing chamber is filled with an extensively degassed liquid,(c) the liquid is under increased pressure, and(d) the liquid is made to circulate, the liquid being evacuated at a location of the focusing chamber as high as possible, and a liquid free of gas bubbles being replenished into the focusing chamber.