Biliary lithotripsy with a new electromagnetic shock wave source. A 2-year clinical experience

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Medical Devices and Technology
• Endourology

Background:

• Gallbladder stones (cholelithiasis) pose a significant clinical challenge.
• Existing lithotripsy methods have limitations in efficacy and patient comfort.
• The Modulith electromagnetic lithotriptor represents a novel approach to stone fragmentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Modulith electromagnetic lithotriptor for treating gallbladder stones.
• To assess the effectiveness of Modulith lithotripsy in an outpatient setting.
• To determine the long-term stone-free rates after treatment.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 170 consecutive patients with gallbladder stones.
• Treatment with the Modulith electromagnetic lithotriptor and oral bile acids.
• Assessment of fragmentation success, side effects, and stone-free status at 12 months.

Main Results:

• Sufficient fragmentation achieved in 94% of patients with gallbladder stones.
• High success rate (92%) in treating common bile duct stones using Modulith.
• Transient and mild side effects reported, with low incidence of biliary pancreatitis.
• 67% of patients were stone-free after one year, with higher rates for smaller stones.

Conclusions:

• The Modulith electromagnetic lithotriptor is a safe and highly effective tool for gallbladder stone lithotripsy.
• Outpatient treatment with Modulith demonstrates excellent outcomes and patient tolerance.
• Modulith lithotripsy offers a viable option for managing both gallbladder and common bile duct stones.