Related Experiment Videos
Intracorporeal lithotripsy with the holmium:YAG laser
H A Razvi1, J D Denstedt, S S Chun
1Division of Urology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
The Journal of Urology
|September 1, 1996
Summary
The holmium:YAG laser effectively fragments urinary stones in 85% of cases, offering a versatile tool for urological procedures. Careful technique is essential to prevent ureteral injury during this intracorporeal lithotripsy method.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Laser technology
- Nephrolithiasis treatment
Background:
- Holmium:YAG laser shows promise for urological applications.
- Potential uses include soft tissue ablation and stone fragmentation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the holmium:YAG laser for intracorporeal lithotripsy of urinary calculi.
Main Methods:
- 79 laser procedures performed over 24 months.
- Included retrograde ureteroscopy for ureteral calculi (71) and percutaneous nephrolithotripsy for caliceal stones (8).
Main Results:
- Complete stone fragmentation achieved in 85% of cases.
- Failures included stone migration, incomplete fragmentation, and laser malfunction.
- One ureteral perforation occurred due to activation without visual guidance.
Conclusions:
- Holmium:YAG laser is effective for intracorporeal lithotripsy.
- Fragments all stone compositions and has multipurpose applications.
- Requires careful technique to avoid ureteral injury due to potential soft tissue effects.