Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy with Lithostar lithotriptor.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Nephrology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Kidney and ureteral stones pose a significant health burden.
• Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a common treatment modality.
• The Lithostar lithotriptor represents a new option for stone fragmentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the initial clinical experience with the Lithostar lithotriptor for treating renal and ureteral calculi.
• To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and patient outcomes of ESWL using this new device.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 248 ESWL treatments performed on 210 stones in 193 patients.
• Data collected included stone location (renal vs. ureteral), anesthesia type, number of shocks, energy levels, and follow-up outcomes.
• Success rates, retreatment rates, and hospitalization requirements were assessed.

Main Results:

• High success rates were observed: 88.0% for renal calculi and 95.5% for ureteral calculi.
• Most treatments were performed with minimal or no anesthesia (outpatient basis).
• Hospitalization was not required for the majority of patients (84.4% renal, 89.6% ureteral).
• A linear relationship was noted between stone size and the number of shock waves needed for fragmentation.

Conclusions:

• The Lithostar lithotriptor demonstrates a favorable initial experience for treating kidney and ureteral stones.
• Its effectiveness, low morbidity, and suitability for outpatient treatment highlight its clinical utility.
• Further studies may explore long-term outcomes and comparisons with other lithotripsy devices.