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Modified shockwave propulsion lithotripsy improves the lower pole renal stone clearance
Arthur Grabsky1,2, Karen Arzumanyan1, Gor Shadyan1,2
1Department of Urology, Yerevan State Medical University named after M. Heratsi, Yerevan, Armenia.
A new shockwave propulsion lithotripsy (SWPL) technique significantly improved stone-free rates for lower pole kidney stones compared to standard shockwave lithotripsy (SWL). SWPL also required fewer shockwaves, offering a more effective treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) is a standard treatment for urinary stones.
- Lower pole renal stones present unique treatment challenges due to gravity and anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a modified technique, shockwave propulsion lithotripsy (SWPL).
- To compare the clinical outcomes of SWPL versus standard SWL for lower pole stones.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of 168 patients with lower pole stones (up to 2 cm).
- Patients were divided into two groups: ultrasound-guided SWL (n=80) and SWPL (n=88).
- Data collected from January 2016 to December 2021.
Main Results:
- SWPL demonstrated a significantly higher stone-free rate (SFR) than standard SWL (85.2% vs. 62.5%, p=0.001).
- SWPL required fewer applied shockwaves (2151 vs. 2502, p=0.001).
- Complication rates were similar between groups (7.1% overall), with most patients needing only one session.
Conclusions:
- The proposed SWPL technique effectively addresses challenges of treating lower pole stones.
- SWPL increases stone-free rates and reduces the need for repeat treatments.
- SWPL offers a promising advancement in managing lower pole renal calculi.
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