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Modulith SL 10/20--experimental introduction and first clinical experience with a new interdisciplinary lithotriptor
J Rassweiler1, U Köhrmann, G Heine
1Department of Urology, Klinikum Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, FRG.
European Urology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
A new electromagnetic lithotriptor effectively disintegrates kidney and biliary stones in 95% of patients, offering a promising advancement in extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy treatments.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Numerous second-generation lithotriptors exist for extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL).
- Despite technical advancements, existing ESWL machines have limitations.
- A novel lithotriptor was developed collaboratively to address these shortcomings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new electromagnetic lithotriptor for stone disintegration.
- To determine optimal energy settings for various stone types and locations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an electromagnetic cylinder with a paraboloid reflector (40 cm) for focusing.
- Employed a water cushion and acoustic cradle for patient coupling and positioning.
- Integrated coaxial ultrasound and a C-arm with pulsed fluoroscopy for stone localization.
Main Results:
- Treated 137 stones in 88 patients, achieving successful disintegration in 95% (83 patients).
- Mean generator voltage was 16 kV, with an average of 2,359 impulses per treatment.
- Successfully treated 12 patients with biliary calculi, including gallstones and bile duct stones.
Conclusions:
- The new electromagnetic lithotriptor demonstrates high success rates for urinary and biliary stone disintegration.
- The device offers a wide pressure range and precise focusing, improving ESWL outcomes.
- Further clinical application is warranted to establish its full therapeutic potential.