Basket extraction--its place in the current treatment of the lower ureteric stone: clinical experience

120 basket extractions have been tried in 115 patients suffering from lower ureteric stones. We used Dormia baskets as well as Johnson baskets. In 83% of the cases the stone has been removed. The present study was conducted in order to trace a possible connection between the success rate of extraction and the duration of symptoms or the size of the stone. Whereas the chances of success in case of a basket extraction performed within 3 months amount to 90%, the success rate drops to 66% once this period of 3 months has expired. Stones smaller than 10 mm (greatest diameter) are removed in 86% of extractions. Stones measuring 10 mm or more, only in 50%. The role of the cross diameter is mentioned. The place of basket extraction in the treatment of lower ureteric stone is discussed.