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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate via an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser

Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate via an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser

Published on: May 9, 2018

Outcomes using a fourth-generation lithotripter: a new benchmark for comparison?

Michael S Nomikos¹, Steven J Sowter, David A Tolley

¹Department of Urology, The Scottish Lithotriptor Centre, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK.

BJU International

|September 14, 2007

Summary

The Sonolith Vision lithotripter effectively treats kidney stones with a 75% stone-free rate, comparable to the HM-3. This advanced technology offers a high success rate with reduced pain management needs.

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Area of Science:

Urology
Medical Devices
Nephrolithiasis Treatment

Background:

Renal calculi (kidney stones) pose a significant health challenge.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a primary treatment modality.
Evaluating new lithotripter technology is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess the efficacy of the Sonolith Vision lithotripter for treating renal calculi.
To compare Sonolith Vision's performance against the established HM-3 lithotripter.
To analyze treatment outcomes based on stone characteristics and location.

Main Methods:

A prospective analysis of 309 patients treated with the Sonolith Vision was conducted.
Inclusion criteria: single, previously untreated renal calculi in normal kidneys.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate via an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser

Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate via an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser

Published on: May 9, 2018

Outcomes assessed via imaging (plain films/ultrasonography) at 1 and 3 months post-treatment.

Main Results:

An initial fragmentation rate of 94% was observed.
The overall 3-month stone-free rate was 75%, with higher rates for smaller stones (<10 mm: 77%).
Only 7% of patients required additional procedures; no serious complications occurred.

Conclusions:

The Sonolith Vision demonstrates high efficacy in treating renal calculi, comparable to the HM-3.
It achieves comparable stone-free rates with lower analgesia requirements and minimal re-treatment needs.
This study challenges the notion that newer lithotripters are less effective than older spark-gap models.