Intraoperative localization of renal calculi by real-time ultrasonography

Experimental and intraoperative experiences in ultrasonographic localization of calculi are reported. With a small high-resolution real-time probe, we localized 1-mm calculi introduced in ex situ cadaver kidneys. During 13 operations all calculi of various sizes and nature were localized 11 times. This method seems to have many advantages: it is easy to use, it localizes calcific and noncalcific small calculi bidimensionally, and it shortens operative time.