[Ambulatory ureteroscopy and pneumatic lithotripsy. Our experience after 1803 ureteral stones]

Ureteroscopy with endoscopical stone fragmentation is effective in the treatment of ureteral lithiasis. We report our experience, as well as our methods.

1803 cases of ureteral stones were treated as outpatient. 44% were located in the lumbar ureter, 11% in the iliac ureter, and 45% in the pelvic ureter. Average size was 0.87 (0.4-2.2) cm. A 7 Fr Wolf rigid ureteroscope and a lithoclast type pneumatic lithotripter were employed. Lithotripsy was performed to an extent that small fragments might be spontaneously passed.

98% of the stones were solved. 16% required additional ESWL. 16% of the patients required the insertion of a double J stent. 12% of the patients required more than one session. Complications appeared in 8% of the patients.

Good results: 98% success rate. It can be performed as outpatient. The support of an ESWL unit is basic.