Related Experiment Videos
[Extracorporeal lithotripsy of gallbladder calculi with piezoelectrically generated shock waves: initial experiences]
1Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik Innere Medizin I Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg/Saar.
Zeitschrift Fur Gastroenterologie
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Piezoelectric lithotripsy effectively fragments radiolucent gallbladder stones. This safe and well-tolerated extracorporeal treatment, combined with litholytic therapy, offers a viable alternative for gallstone management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Devices
- Urology
Context:
- Gallbladder stones (cholelithiasis) are common, often asymptomatic, but can cause significant morbidity.
- Extracorporeal lithotripsy is an established method for gallstone treatment.
- Radiolucent stones pose a diagnostic challenge and require effective fragmentation methods.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a piezoelectric lithotripter (Piezolith 2300) for extracorporeal fragmentation of radiolucent gallbladder stones.
- To assess the need for adjuvant litholytic therapy and its impact on stone clearance.
- To compare piezoelectric lithotripsy with existing lithotripter technologies.
Summary:
- A piezoelectric lithotripter was used in 24 patients to fragment radiolucent gallbladder stones (0.8-3.1 cm) to a maximal size of 7 mm.
- Successful fragmentation was achieved in 23 patients within 1-3 sessions (mean 1.5).
- Adjuvant oral litholytic therapy (chenodeoxycholic and ursodeoxycholic acid) led to complete stone clearance in 4 patients within 15 weeks.
Impact:
- Piezoelectric lithotripsy is a safe and effective alternative for gallbladder stone fragmentation.
- The treatment is well-tolerated, requiring no analgesia or sedation.
- This technology expands treatment options for patients with radiolucent gallstones.