Related Experiment Videos
Clinical experience using the Wolf Piezolith device at 2 British stone centers
W G Bowsher1, S Carter, T Philp
1Institute of Urology, St. Peters' Hospitals, London, United Kingdom.
The Journal of Urology
|September 1, 1989
Summary
The Wolf Piezolith machine offers a painless, effective treatment for kidney and ureteral stones using piezoelectric shock waves and ultrasound. It achieved high fragmentation rates with low morbidity, presenting a cost-effective alternative.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Devices
- Nephrology
Background:
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) aims for painless kidney and ureteral stone treatment.
- Second-generation lithotriptors utilize diverse shock wave generation and imaging techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the clinical experience with the Wolf Piezolith, a piezoelectric ESWL device.
- To evaluate its efficacy and safety in treating renal and ureteral calculi.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two Wolf Piezolith machines for 1 year, treating 545 patients (ages 5-84).
- Employed ultrasound imaging and piezoelectric crystals for shock wave generation.
- Assessed treatment outcomes, including stone fragmentation and clearance, at 2-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Achieved complete fragmentation (particles < 2 mm) in 94% of renal calculi cases.
- 53% of patients with renal calculi were stone-free at 2 months.
- Ultrasound imaging proved effective, comparable to x-ray; morbidity was low.
- 62% required multiple treatments, with sessions increasing with stone size.
Conclusions:
- The Wolf Piezolith device provides a favorable alternative to first-generation lithotriptors.
- It demonstrates high efficacy in stone fragmentation and clearance with low morbidity.
- The machine offers a cost-effective option with effective ultrasound imaging for ESWL.