Intrarenal stone manipulation: summary of recent experience

Since first described in 1975, non-operative external manipulation of small intrarenal calculi has been done on 30 individuals. This procedure has facilitated stone passage successfully in 80 per cent of the cases and, thus far, has been free of significant complication. Fluoroscopic control and materials available in most radiology departments allow for intrarenal manipulation to dislodge small calculi in virtually any calix, permitting spontaneous and usually asymptomatic passage. The procedure and subsequent management are described in detail.