Initial experience using a new type extracorporeal lithotripter with an anti-misshot control device

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Extracorporeal lithotripsy is a common procedure for treating kidney stones.
• Existing lithotripsy methods may have limitations such as the need for anesthesia or risk of misshots.
• Advancements in lithotripsy technology aim to improve safety, efficacy, and patient comfort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present initial clinical trial results of a novel overhead piezoelectric extracorporeal lithotripter.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the lithotripter, particularly its anti-misshot control device (AMCD).
• To assess the feasibility of anesthesia-free lithotripsy with this new technology.

Main Methods:

• Clinical trials were conducted on thirty patients with upper urinary tract calculi.
• Treatment utilized a new overhead piezoelectric extracorporeal lithotripter equipped with an anti-misshot control device (AMCD).
• Ultrasound was used for stone localization via an overhead applicator.

Main Results:

• The lithotripter demonstrated a 77% success rate and a 93% stone destruction rate in treated patients.
• The anti-misshot control device (AMCD) functioned effectively, generating shock waves only when the stone was in the focal region.
• No serious complications were observed during the trials, although the AMCD had limitations with small or deeply located stones.

Conclusions:

• The overhead piezoelectric extracorporeal lithotripter is a promising device for safe and effective kidney stone treatment.
• The integrated anti-misshot control device (AMCD) enhances safety by preventing unintended shock wave delivery.
• The elimination of anesthesia requirement makes this lithotripsy method favorable for patient convenience and potentially reduces healthcare costs.