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In vitro gallstone fragmentation by three piezoelectric lithotripters
1University of Rochester, New York.
The Journal of Stone Disease
|December 9, 1992
Summary
This study compared three piezoelectric lithotripters for gallstone fragmentation. Results showed no significant difference in stone mass reduction between the Diasonics, EDAP, and Wolf devices.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Gallstone lithotripsy is a key treatment for gallstones.
- Piezoelectric lithotripters offer a non-invasive approach.
- Variations in lithotripter design impact shock wave characteristics and fragmentation efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the gallstone fragmentation effectiveness of three distinct piezoelectric lithotripters.
- To evaluate the impact of design differences on gallstone breakdown.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-six gallstones from eight families were analyzed.
- Fragmentation was performed using Diasonics (Therasonic), EDAP (LT01), and Wolf (Piezolith 2300) lithotripters.
- Each stone received 500 shocks at maximum power (2-2.5 Hz); composition and mass reduction were assessed.
Main Results:
- Initial stone weight and size were comparable across all groups.
- All gallstones analyzed were primarily cholesterol-based (>70%).
- The percentage of initial stone mass reduced to fragments ≤2 mm did not significantly differ: Diasonics (60±4%), EDAP (53±6%), Wolf (50±7%); p=0.068.
Conclusions:
- No significant difference was observed in the fragmentation of cholesterol gallstones by the three piezoelectric lithotripters.
- Further research may be needed to explore potential subtle differences or optimal use cases for each device.