[Surgery of renoureteral lithiasis. Current indications]

Today, the issue about kidney and ureteral stone and their management is based on ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) like singly or as a part of combination therapy. In some cases, endoscopic procedures (URS, PNL) with contact lithotripsy, is the first-line treatment. Retroperitoneoscopic is a therapeutical option in some hospitals. Open stone surgery is now drastically reducing and the endoscopic and extracorporeal methods are increasing, overcoat ESWL in those hospitals who has an own lithotripter. The optimal results of non-invasive procedures, and the ESWL advantages for the patients (outpatient and anesthesia-free treatment, decreased morbidity,...), has caused limited annual indications of open surgery for stone disease even a complete disappearance in many center.

The Stone and Lithotripsy Unit of "Jiménez Díaz" Foundation (FJD) (Madrid), who has an own lithotipter (Modulith SL 20, STORZ) make an evaluation of 54 patients treated with open surgery (1990-2000) in order to reflect on the indications. Nephrectomy for serious paremquimal lithiasic lesions (complicated pyelonefhritis, xantogranulomatosis....) is not included.

The open surgery techniques for stone diseases were the classic according to every case: pielolithotomy (simple or extended +/- infundibulolithotomy), anatrophic nephrotomy, ureterolithotomy,.... At the same time it should be resolved those anomalous structures or obstruction associated to the stone disease (congenital hydroneprosis, ureterocele,...).

Now days are difficult cases of stone diseases to be managed for any methods included open surgery. It's the renal complex stone. Of course, surgery is the best option, the more effectively choice. When endoscopic procedures (URS, NPL) fall and the stone is synthomatic must be operated. When they are serious situation (septic shock, complications derived from the others methods,...). It's necessary an urgent and effectively treatment and it's the open surgery.

Open surgery is actually indicated for the complex renal stone and the complicated ureteral stone. So, the training on open surgery should be at the same time on the endoscopic, laparoscopic or extracorporeal. Open surgery will be the first-line treatment in some case. Open surgery should be considered in those urgent situation and will be done with skill and precision.