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The Swiss Lithoclast: a new device for endoscopic stone disintegration
H Schulze1, G Haupt, M Piergiovanni
1Department of Urology, University of Bochum, Marienhospital Herne, Germany.
The Journal of Urology
|January 1, 1993
Summary
The Swiss Lithoclast, a new pneumatic shock wave device, offers effective endoscopic stone disintegration for urinary tract stones. It successfully fragmented all stones in 151 patients, presenting a cost-effective alternative to existing lithotriptors.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Devices
- Nephrology
Background:
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is not always sufficient for urinary tract stones.
- Endourological treatments like ultrasonic, electrohydraulic, or laser lithotripsy are standard for stone fragmentation.
- A need exists for cost-effective and efficient endoscopic lithotripsy devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the early clinical experience with the Swiss Lithoclast, a novel pneumatic lithotriptor.
- To assess the efficacy and applicability of the Swiss Lithoclast for endoscopic stone disintegration.
Main Methods:
- The study involved 151 patients with stones located in the kidney, ureter, bladder, or Kock pouch.
- The Swiss Lithoclast, a device utilizing pneumatic shock waves, was employed for stone fragmentation.
- Treatment success was evaluated based on stone disintegration and endoscopic fragmentation.
Main Results:
- Endoscopic fragmentation was successful in all 151 treated patients.
- The Swiss Lithoclast effectively disintegrated stones of various compositions.
- Fragmentation was achieved within a short period, regardless of stone type.
Conclusions:
- The Swiss Lithoclast demonstrates high efficacy in endoscopic urinary stone treatment.
- Its simple construction and reasonable cost make it an attractive alternative to conventional endoscopic lithotriptors.
- The device shows promise for widespread adoption in urological stone management.