Lithotripsy devices for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) - new developments.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Devices
• Nephrology

Background:

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) is a primary surgical treatment for large or complex kidney stones (>2 cm).
• This technique has been established since 1976, with ongoing advancements in instrumentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent literature on novel lithotripsy devices and technologies utilized in PNL.
• To assess the advancements in managing renal calculi.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature focusing on innovative lithotripsy technologies for PNL.
• Analysis of devices including Holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Ho:YAG) laser, SwissLithoClast Trilogy, Olympus Shockpulse-SE, Thulium Fiber Laser (TFL), and Moses technology.

Main Results:

• The Holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Ho:YAG) laser is the current standard for laser lithotripsy in PNL.
• Newer devices like Trilogy, Shockpulse-SE, TFL, and Moses technology offer improved stone fragmentation and clearance.
• These advancements facilitate safer, more efficient, and effective stone management compared to older lithotripsy methods.

Conclusions:

• Novel lithotripsy devices represent significant improvements in PNL procedures.
• Technologies such as TFL and Moses enhance stone treatment efficacy and patient safety.
• The evolution of lithotripsy continues to refine the surgical management of renal calculi.