Loop catheter extraction of ureteral stones: a re-evaluation

Loop catheter extraction of ureteral stones has been used consistently by our group for over thirty years. Stones of up to 1.5 cm in largest dimension can be removed by this method, and for stones of any size there is less trauma to the ureter than with basket extraction. A representative five-year experience is presented in dealing with 264 ureteral stones, 58 of which were managed by loop extraction.