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[Laser lithotripsy of the upper urinary tract]
1Urologischen Universitätsklinik Ulm, Deutschland.
Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|January 1, 1995
Summary
New flexible laser probes and ureteroscopes improve endoscopic stone treatment success rates to over 90%. While laser lithotripsy offers an effective option for ureteral calculi, extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy remains the preferred initial therapy.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Medical Device Technology
Context:
- Approximately 10% of patients with kidney stones require endoscopic stone treatment.
- Advancements in laser lithotripsy technology have introduced thin, flexible probes.
- Development of miniscopes facilitates endoscopic stone manipulation within the ureter.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the role of new flexible laser probes and miniscopes in ureteroscopy.
- To assess the efficacy and potential complications of laser-assisted endoscopic stone treatment.
- To compare laser lithotripsy with existing treatments for ureteral calculi.
Summary:
- Flexible laser lithotripsy probes (200 microns) and miniscopes enhance ureteroscopy.
- This technology achieves success rates in the 90% range for endoscopic stone treatment.
- High initial cost of lasers is a significant drawback, though complications may be reduced.
Impact:
- Miniscopes are expected to reduce complications associated with ureteroscopy.
- Laser lithotripsy presents a highly successful intracorporeal treatment option.
- Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) remains the primary choice for ureteral stones.