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Introduction: Currently, there are multiple intracorporeal lithotripters available for use in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of two novel lithotripters: Trilogy and ShockPulse-SE. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective multi-institutional randomized trial comparing outcomes of PCNL using two novel lithotripters between February 2019 and June 2020. The study assessed objective measures of stone clearance time, stone clearance rate, device malfunction, stone-free rates, and complications. Device assessment was provided through immediate postoperative survey by primary surgeons. Results: There were 100 standard PCNLs completed using either a Trilogy or ShockPulse-SE lithotrite. Using quantitative Stone Analysis Software to estimate stone volume, the mean stone volume was calculated at 4.18 ± 4.79 and 3.86 ± 3.43 cm3 for the Trilogy and ShockPulse-SE groups, respectively. Stone clearance rates were found to be 1.22 ± 1.67 and 0.77 ± 0.68 cm3/min for Trilogy vs ShockPulse-SE (p = 0.0542). When comparing Trilogy to ShockPulse-SE in a multivariate analysis, total operative room time (104.4 ± 48.2 minutes vs 121.1 ± 59.2 minutes p = 0.126), rates of secondary procedures (17.65% vs 40.81%, p = 0.005), and device malfunctions (1.96% vs 34.69%, p < 0.001) were less, respectively. There was no difference in final stone-free rates between devices. Conclusion: Both the Trilogy and ShockPulse-SE lithotripters are highly efficient at removing large renal stones. In this study, we noted differences between the two devices including fewer device malfunctions when Trilogy device was utilized. Clinical Trial ID number: NCT03959683 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction. We analyzed efficacy and complications of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) and analgesia requirement during the treatment in two groups of patients treated with different lithotripters. Materials and methods. The patients treated were 189, 102 between September 2016 and April 2017 with HMT Lithotron® LITS 172, electrohydraulic, and 87 between May and September 2017 with Storz Medical Modulith® SLK, electromagnetic. The main differences between the lithotripters are: type of energy source, patient position, frequency and number of shock waves. All the patients underwent sonography before and four to eight weeks after the treatment. The targeting was sonographic for renal stones and X-ray for ureteral stones. All the patients received Ketorolac before the treatment with a supplement of Pethidine if needed. People lost to follow-up and with incomplete data were excluded. Results. We enrolled 173 patients, 94 treated with the electrohydraulic lithotripter and 79 with the electromagnetic one. 43 patients (54%) in the electromagnetic group and 31 (33%) in the electrohydraulic group were stone free or presented clinically insignificant residual fragments (CIRFs), defined as asymptomatic, noninfectious, ≤ 3 mm. The association between CIRFs and the kind of lithotripter was statistically significant (p = 0.004). An increased need for analgesia was found in 14.9% of patients in the electromagnetic group and in 81% of patients in the electrohydraulic group (p < 0.001). The access to emergency room (intractable pain, kidney failure, fever, Steintrasse) after the treatment was similar in the two groups (p = 0.37). Conclusions. The best results in stones fragmentation and less analgesia requirement were demonstrated in the electromagnetic lithotripter group. No differences were demonstrated considering the need for emergency room after the treatment

Context. Urolithiasis and obesity are now public health problems with an increased incidence worldwide. Management of urolithiasis in patients with morbid obesity is usually associated with higher morbidity and mortality compared to non-obese patients. ESWL is a nonsurgical procedure for the treatment of lithiasis. In obese patients the ESWL efficacy is influenced by the skin-to-stone distance or poorer detection of the calculus because of the fatty tissue. Objective. To highlight the overweight or obese lithiasic patient profile that could be best treated by ESWL. Subjects and Methods. We evaluated ESWL results in 1393 patients with kidney or ureteral stones between 5 and 20 mm. They were divided into 4 groups according to the BMI: Group A-overweight (BMI=25-30 kg/m²); Group B-grade I obesity (BMI=30-35 kg/m²); Group C-grade II obesity (BMI=35-40 kg/m²) and a control group of normal weight (BMI=18-25 kg/m²). Results. Patients with a higher BMI required a greater number of ESWL sessions. A statistically significant greater number of patients with a waist circumference of >102 cm required more than 2 SWL sessions (p=0.007). Location of the stones in the pelvic ureter had the highest rate of success for obese patients (p=0.00001). The ESWL success rate in overweight and obese patients can be negatively influenced by BMI, abdominal circumference over 102 cm, and hardness of calculi reflected in the radiopacity on KUB. Conclusions. In patients with grade II obesity, pyelocaliceal calculus and increased hardness, other urological alternatives to lithiasis should be considered from the beginning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In contrast to treatment with oral or intramuscular analgesics, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (E.S.W.L.) can be performed with patients under sedation too. Besides the advantage of increased shock energy, patients tend to have more constant breathing excursions and are more idle during treatment, potentially increasing the stone-free ratio (S.F.R.) after treatment. Methods: This study presents the results of 310 patients who underwent 400 E.S.W.L. procedures under sedation, with a stationary lithotripter. Results: After one procedure, the S.F.R. was 54.8% (170/310). A second treatment was successful in 42.1% (32/76), a third treatment in 21.4% (3/14). Therefore, 66.1% (205/310) of patients eventually became stone-free. Kidney stones were successfully treated in 65.4% (161/246), ureteral stones in 68.8% (44/64) of cases. Patients with stones ≤15 mm were successfully treated in 67.4% (194/288), patients with stones >15 mm in 50% (11/22) of cases. Considering each procedure individually, 45.3% (181/400) of procedures were successful after 3 weeks. Extending follow-up to 3 months is important, since 26.7% of stones (24/90) eventually still disappeared, increasing S.F.R. to 51.3% after one procedure. Complications occurred after 5.5% E.S.W.L.-procedures. Conclusions: E.S.W.L. is a well-tolerated, non-invasive procedure that produces reasonable stone clearance of both upper and lower urinary tract calculi. Performing the procedure whilst patients are intravenously sedated results in an acceptable S.F.R. Strong selection based on unfavourable factors could increase the chance on successful treatment and spare patients a pointless procedure. However, considering E.S.W.L.'s elegant nature, sometimes a more tolerant approach seems justifiable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The LithoClast Trilogy is a novel single probe, dual-energy lithotripter with ultrasonic (US) vibration and electromagnetic impact forces. ShockPulse and LithoClast Select are existing lithotripters that also use a combination of US and mechanical impact energies. We compared the efficacy and tip motion of these devices in an in vitro setting. Materials and Methods: Begostones, in the ratio 15:3, were used in all trials. Test groups were Trilogy, ShockPulse, Select ultrasound (US) only, and Select ultrasound with pneumatic (USP). For clearance testing, a single investigator facile with each lithotripter fragmented 10 stones per device. For drill testing, a hands-free apparatus with a submerged balance was used to apply 1 or 2 lbs of pressure on a stone in contact with the device tip. High-speed photography was used to assess Trilogy and ShockPulse's probe tip motion. Results: Select-USP was slowest and Trilogy fastest on clearance testing (p < 0.01). On 1 lbs drill testing, Select-US was slowest (p = 0.001). At 2 lbs, ShockPulse was faster than Select US (p = 0.027), but did not significantly outpace Trilogy nor Select-USP. At either weight, there was no significant difference between Trilogy and ShockPulse. During its US function, Trilogy's maximum downward tip displacement was 0.041 mm relative to 0.0025 mm with ShockPulse. Trilogy had 0.25 mm of maximum downward displacement during its impactor function while ShockPulse had 0.01 mm. Conclusions: Single probe dual-energy devices, such as Trilogy and ShockPulse, represent the next generation of lithotripters. Trilogy more efficiently cleared stone than currently available devices, which could be explained by its larger probe diameter and greater downward tip displacement during both US and impactor functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Dornier lithotripter S II system in the treatment of ureteral calculi. Patients and Methods: A total of 97 cases which consists of 54 males and 43 females with ureteral stones were treated by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Mean age was 42.6 years. Inclusion criteria were solitary radiopaque ureteral stones of radiological stone size of ≤1 cm. The stones were not impacted, with normal kidney functions. Procedure time, number of shocks, energy used, number of sessions and complications were reported. The outcome of ESWL was also recorded. Results: Stones were in the abdominal (upper ureter) in 50% of patients, in pelvic (middle ureter) in 47% of patients. All patients had unilateral stones and the mean stone size in maximum length was) 10 mm). Good dye excretion passing the stone was noted in all patients. Mild hydronephrosis was found in 85% of cases. A total of 49 cases were treated by a single session, while in 35% of cases two sessions were enough and 16% received three sessions. The average number of shocks per session was 3125. The average number of shocks per patient was 5962.5 shocks and average energy was 204.3 Joules. The overall stone-free rate 3 months after lithotripsy was 94%. After a single session of lithotripsy, 49 patients (49%) became stone-free. Stone free rates after ESWL for upper, middle ureteral stones were 94%, 95.7% respectively. Additional procedures were needed in only 6 cases (6%) to render patients stone-free after lithotripsy. No serious complications occurred. Conclusion: The Dornier lithotripter S II is very effective in the treatment of ureteral calculi with no major complications.

Objective: To investigate the impact of lithotripter focal width on stone fragmentation. Materials and Methods: A modified reflector was used to reduce −6 dB beam size of the HM3 lithotripter, while increasing concomitantly peak pressure. Fragmentation in vitro was assessed with modified and original reflectors using BegoStone phantoms. A membrane holder was used to mimic lithotripsy in vivo, and a matrix holder was used to assess variations of fragmentation power in the focal plane of the lithotripter field. Stone fragmentation in vivo produced by the two reflectors was further compared in a swine model. Results: Stone fragmentation in vitro after 500 (or 2000) shocks was ∼60% (or ∼82%) vs ∼40% (or ∼75%) with original and modified reflector, respectively ( p ≤ 0.0016). Fragmentation power with the modified reflector was the highest on the lithotripter axis, but dropped rapidly in the lateral direction and became insignificant at radial distances >6.0 mm. Stone fragmentation with the original reflector was lower along the lithotripter axis, but fragmentation power decayed slowly in lateral direction, with appreciable fragmentation produced at 6.0 mm. Stone fragmentation efficiency in vivo after 500 (or 2000) shocks was ∼70% (or ∼90%) vs ∼45% (or ∼80%) with original and modified reflector, respectively ( p ≤ 0.04). Conclusions: A lithotripter field with broad beam size yields superior stone comminution when compared with narrow beam size under comparable effective acoustic pulse energy both in vivo and in vitro. These findings may facilitate future improvements in lithotripter design to maximize comminution efficiency while minimizing tissue injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: Since its introduction, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) has undergone a variety of changes; however, it remains one of the most utilized treatment modalities for urolithiasis. The goal of this review is to provide the practicing urologist an update on contemporary trends, new technologies, and related controversies in utilizing ESWL for stone treatment. Recent Findings: ESWL use has come under scrutiny with a shift in focus to cost-effectiveness and healthcare outcomes. Fortunately, advances in lithotripter technology have spawned several generations of devices that strive to improve stone-free rates and decrease complications. Most of all, a focus on patient selection criteria has helped improve procedural success. Summary: Years of experience utilizing ESWL for stone treatment have helped urologists better optimize its use and minimize complications. Improvements in technique along with more stringent patient and stone selection have helped ESWL remain a mainstay in the treatment of stone disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) is a well - established treatment option for urolithiasis. The technology of SWL has undergone significant changes in an attempt to better optimize the results while reducing failure rates. There are some important limitations that restrict the use of SWL. In this review, we aim to place these advantages and limitations in perspective, assess the current role of SWL, and discuss recent advances in lithotripsy technology and treatment strategies.Methods: A comprehensive review was conducted to identify studies reporting outcomes on ESWL. We searched for literature (PubMed, Embase, Medline) that focused on the physics of shock waves, theories of stone disintegration, and studies on optimising shock wave application. Relevant articles in English published since 1980 were selected for inclusion.Results: Efficacy has been shown to vary between lithotripters. To maximize stone fragmentation and reduce failure rates, many factors can be optimized. Factors to consider in proper patient selection include skin - to - stone distance and stone size. Careful attention to the rate of shock wave administration, proper coupling of the treatment head to the patient have important influences on the success of lithotripsy.Conclusion: Proper selection of patients who are expected to respond well to SWL, as well as attention to the technical aspects of the procedure are the keys to SWL success. Studies aiming to determine the mechanisms of shock wave action in stone breakage have begun to suggest new treatment strategies to improve success rates and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technical innovations in all aspects of percutaneous nephrolithotomy have changed the field considerably. The current review is aimed at reporting on the most recent advancements in the field of percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Improvements in CT imaging and the possibility of 3D rendering have dethroned the intravenous pyelogram as gold standard for pre-operative imaging. Where gaining access in the lower pole in prone position with telescopic metal dilators, placing a 30F tract used to be standard, the plethora of alternatives provides the trained surgeon with a large armamentarium to tackle any obstacle. Novel lithotripters appear more efficient than their predecessors and with tubeless PCNL gaining some momentum, ambulatory PCNL is slowly but surely becoming feasible rather than fictional. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. We analyzed efficacy and complications of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) and analgesia requirement during the treatment in two groups of patients treated with different lithotripters. Materials and methods. The patients treated were 189, 102 between September 2016 and April 2017 with HMT Lithotron® LITS 172, electrohydraulic, and 87 between May and September 2017 with Storz Medical Modulith® SLK, electromagnetic. The main differences between the lithotripters are: type of energy source, patient position, frequency and number of shock waves. All the patients underwent sonography before and four to eight weeks after the treatment. The targeting was sonographic for renal stones and X-ray for ureteral stones. All the patients received Ketorolac before the treatment with a supplement of Pethidine if needed. People lost to follow-up and with incomplete data were excluded. Results. We enrolled 173 patients, 94 treated with the electrohydraulic lithotripter and 79 with the electromagnetic one. 43 patients (54%) in the electromagnetic group and 31 (33%) in the electrohydraulic group were stone free or presented clinically insignificant residual fragments (CIRFs), defined as asymptomatic, noninfectious, = 3 mm. The association between CIRFs and the kind of lithotripter was statistically significant (p = 0.004). An increased need for analgesia was found in 14.9% of patients in the electromagnetic group and in 81% of patients in the electrohydraulic group (p < 0.001). The access to emergency room (intractable pain, kidney failure, fever, Steintrasse) after the treatment was similar in the two groups (p = 0.37). Conclusions. The best results in stones fragmentation and less analgesia requirement were demonstrated in the electromagnetic lithotripter group. No differences were demonstrated considering the need for emergency room after the treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Dornier lithotripter S II system in the treatment of ureteral calculi. Patients and Methods: A total of 97 cases which consists of 54 males and 43 females with ureteral stones were treated by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Mean age was 42.6 years. Inclusion criteria were solitary radiopaque ureteral stones of radiological stone size of ≤1 cm. The stones were not impacted, with normal kidney functions. Procedure time, number of shocks, energy used, number of sessions and complications were reported. The outcome of ESWL was also recorded. Results: Stones were in the abdominal (upper ureter) in 50% of patients, in pelvic (middle ureter) in 47% of patients. All patients had unilateral stones and the mean stone size in maximum length was) 10 mm). Good dye excretion passing the stone was noted in all patients. Mild hydronephrosis was found in 85% of cases. A total of 49 cases were treated by a single session, while in 35% of cases two sessions were enough and 16% received three sessions. The average number of shocks per session was 3125. The average number of shocks per patient was 5962.5 shocks and average energy was 204.3 Joules. The overall stone-free rate 3 months after lithotripsy was 94%. After a single session of lithotripsy, 49 patients (49%) became stone-free. Stone free rates after ESWL for upper, middle ureteral stones were 94%, 95.7% respectively. Additional procedures were needed in only 6 cases (6%) to render patients stone-free after lithotripsy. No serious complications occurred. Conclusion: The Dornier lithotripter S II is very effective in the treatment of ureteral calculi with no major complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To compare the effectiveness of the pneumatic lithotripter and the combined lithotripter (pneumatic + ultrasonic) in percutaneous nephrolithotomy ( PNL). Patients and Methods A total of 150 patients who underwent PNL between March 2009 and January 2011 were included in the study. In the first 49 cases, only the pneumatic lithotripter (group 1) was used, while in the next 101 patients, combined lithotripter (group 2) was used. Differences with regard to total clearance time, fluoroscopic screening time ( FST), duration of hospital stay, duration of nephrostomy removal, haematocrit loss, blood transfusion rate and successful treatment rate were investigated between the two groups. Results The general characteristics of the patients were similar between the two groups. However, the mean stone size was statistically significantly higher in group 2. No statistically-significant difference was detected between the two groups in terms of hospital stay, nephrostomy removal days, successful treatment rate and blood transfusion rate, but compared to group 1 patients, total clearance time, FST and haematocrit loss were significantly less in group 2. Conclusion Although pneumatic and ultrasonic lithotripters are both sufficiently effective when used separately, the combined device was observed to positively influence total clearance time, FST and haematocrit loss significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objectives: Thirty years after its introduction, extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) is still first-line treatment for more than half of all urinary tract stones, but machines and treatment strategies have significantly developed over time. In this review, we summarise the latest knowledge about the clinically important aspects of ESWL. Methods: We searched PubMed to identify relevant reports and the latest European Association of Urology guidelines, and standard urological textbooks were consulted. Results: New technical developments include: Twin-head and tandem-pulse shock-wave generators; wide-focus, low-pressure systems; optimised coupling; and automated location and acoustic tracking systems. Indications have been refined, making possible the identification of patients in whom ESWL treatment is likely to fail. By lowering the shock-wave rate, improving coupling, applying abdominal compression, power ‘ramping’ and postoperative medical expulsion therapy, treatment protocols have been optimised. Conclusions: Promising new technical developments are under development, with the potential to increase the stone-free rate after ESWL. For optimal results, the refined indications need to be respected and optimised treatment protocols should be applied. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Context: The introduction of new lithotripters has increased problems associated with shock wave application. Recent studies concerning mechanisms of stone disintegration, shock wave focusing, coupling, and application have appeared that may address some of these problems. Objective: To present a consensus with respect to the physics and techniques used by urologists, physicists, and representatives of European lithotripter companies. Evidence acquisition: We reviewed recent literature (PubMed, Embase, Medline) that focused on the physics of shock waves, theories of stone disintegration, and studies on optimising shock wave application. In addition, we used relevant information from a consensus meeting of the German Society of Shock Wave Lithotripsy. Evidence synthesis: Besides established mechanisms describing initial fragmentation (tear and shear forces, spallation, cavitation, quasi-static squeezing), the model of dynamic squeezing offers new insight in stone comminution. Manufacturers have modified sources to either enlarge the focal zone or offer different focal sizes. The efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) can be increased by lowering the pulse rate to 60–80 shock waves/min and by ramping the shock wave energy. With the water cushion, the quality of coupling has become a critical factor that depends on the amount, viscosity, and temperature of the gel. Fluoroscopy time can be reduced by automated localisation or the use of optical and acoustic tracking systems. There is a trend towards larger focal zones and lower shock wave pressures. Conclusions: New theories for stone disintegration favour the use of shock wave sources with larger focal zones. Use of slower pulse rates, ramping strategies, and adequate coupling of the shock wave head can significantly increase the efficacy and safety of ESWL. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

im: The presentation of our results using the Dornier lithotripter (Doli) S electromagnetic shockwave emitter (EMSE) 220 F-XP for the strategic management of staghorn renal calculi. Methods: Sixteen patients with renal staghorn stones of more than 35 mm in maximum length on plain X-rays were treated by shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) monotherapy with the Doli S EMSE 220 F-XP. Double-J ureteral stent was inserted to all prior to the first SWL treatment. Shock wave counts varied from 2,500 to 3,600 with a shock release frequency of 70-80 pulses per minute. The number of sessions varied from 2 to 6. The interval between the SWL sessions was around 1 month. Fragmentation rate of 20-25% of the stone load per session was considered a valid criterion for progressing to further SWL sessions. Results: Nine patients became stone free at the end of SWL sessions and two patients had renal stone fragments smaller than 4 mm, which were eliminated 6 months later. Two patients developed streinstrasse that was managed with ureteroscopy. Auxiliary SWL was also performed on three patients with residual ureteral calculi. The mean follow up period was 12 months. The remaining five patients underwent open surgery for incomplete stone fragmentation. No major complications developed during the follow up period. The predominant composition of stones available for analysis was struvite. Conclusion: Doli S EMSE 220 F-XP can be a safe and effective treatment option for renal staghorn stones on an outpatient basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: Delivering a drug close to the targeted cells improves its benefit versus risk ratio. A possible method for local drug delivery is to encapsulate the drug into solid microscopic carriers and to release it by ultrasound. The objective of this work was to use shock waves for delivering a molecule loaded in polymeric microcapsules. Material and methods: Ethyl benzoate (EBZ) was encapsulated in spherical gelatin shells by complex coacervation. A piezocomposite shock wave generator (120mm in diameter, focused at 97mm, pulse length 1.4μs) was used for sonicating the capsules and delivering the molecule. Shock parameters (acoustic pressure, number of shocks and shock repetition frequency) were varied in order to measure their influence on EBZ release. A cavitation-inhibitor liquid (Ablasonic®) was then used to evaluate the role of cavitation in the capsule disruption. Results: The measurements showed that the mean quantity of released EBZ was proportional to the acoustic pressure of the shock wave (r 2 >0.99), and increased with the number of applied shocks. Up to 88% of encapsulated EBZ could be released within 4min only (240 shocks, 1Hz). However, the quantity of released EBZ dropped at high shock rates (above 2Hz). Ultrasound imaging sequences showed that cavitation clouds might form, at high shock rates, along the acoustic axis making the exposure inefficient. Measurements done in Ablasonic® showed that cavitation plays a major role in microcapsules disruption. Conclusions: In this study, we designed polymeric capsules that can be disrupted by shock waves. This type of microcapsule is theoretically a suitable vehicle for carrying hydrophobic drugs. Following these positive results, encapsulation of drugs is considered for further medical applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

OBJECTIVE To test the clinical efficacy of the StoneBreakerTM (LMA Urology, Gland, Switzerland), a novel device which is much more compact and ergonomic than other current intracorporeal pneumatic lithotripters, and more powerful, generating contact pressures of up to 2.9 MPa, thereby enabling better pneumatic fragmentation and removal of stones during percutaneous nephrostolithotomy (PCNL), ureteroscopic stone fragmentation (USF) and vesical stone lithotripsy (VL). PATIENTS AND METHODS We prospectively evaluated 102 patients, comprising 49 PCNLs, 48 USFs and 5 VLs, treated using the StoneBreaker. The stone size, position, number of shocks required to fragment the stone to effect complete clearance, and degree of retropulsion were documented in each case; any evidence of urothelial trauma was noted. RESULTS All stones were satisfactorily fragmented and all patients rendered stone-free. Very few shocks were required, and documented retropulsion was minor. There was no evidence of consequential urothelial trauma at the end of any procedure. CONCLUSION The StoneBreaker appears to be a safe, effective, robust and compact device for intracorporeal lithotripsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We report our results of an audit on extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) of renal and ureteric stones using the Dornier Lithotripter S (Dornier MedTech, Wessling, Germany). Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the outcome of ESWL for patients treated between March and December 2003 (pilot). Prospective collection of data was performed for patients treated between October 2004 and March 2005 (re-audit) after an upgrade to the power unit of our shockwave emitter by the manufacturer in September 2004. Patient demographic data, target stone characteristics and treatment outcome were recorded. Analysis of the results between the two periods was made. Results: ESWL was performed on 232 and 220 target stones in the pilot and re-audit periods, respectively. Patient demographic data and stone characteristics were similar between the two periods. Clinical success (stone fragments less than 4 mm in size after one session of ESWL) was achieved in 31% and 61% (stone-free 19% and 38%) of patients in the pilot and re-audit periods, respectively ( P < 0.0001, χ2 test). Patients requiring re-treatment with ESWL to achieve success and auxiliary procedure reduced to 8% and 5%, respectively, in the re-audit period (pilot: 14% and 14%, respectively). The overall complication rate was reduced from 6.2% (pilot) to 3.3% (re-audit). Obstructive complications significantly reduced from 4.8% to 0.5% (pilot vs re-audit, Fisher’s exact test, P = 0.012). Conclusion: Effectiveness of our lithotripter was significantly improved and obstructive complications were significantly reduced after an upgrade to the power unit of the electromagnetic shockwave emitter of our lithotripter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Calculi encountered in the lower urinary tract typically reside within the bladder, less often in the urethra. In this video, we present a minimally invasive endoscopic approach for removal of the largest total stone volume in the lower urinary tract reported in the literature to date.Methods: A 25-year-old male (body mass index 61 kg/m2) with neurogenic bladder presented with urosepsis and acute kidney injury secondary to obstructive uropathy. Computerized tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis demonstrated bilateral severe hydroureteronephrosis, a 4.2-cm bladder stone, and 3 urethral stones, including a 7.7-cm prostatic urethral stone and 2 membranous urethral stones (Fig. 1). Urgent bilateral percutaneous nephrostomy tubes were placed. The patient elected for endoscopic management.Results: The patient was placed in the supine lithotomy position. His buried penis and narrow urethra only accommodated a 16-French flexible cystoscope. Multiple stones were encountered in the membranous urethra. A 60-W SuperPulse Thulium Fiber laser at 2 J and 30 Hz was utilized to dust the urethral stones efficiently. Simultaneous ultrasound-guided percutaneous access into the bladder was obtained and ultrasonic lithotripsy via shockpulse was used to clear the bladder stone and prostatic stone from above. Total stone treatment time was 240 minutes. Suprapubic and urethral catheters were placed at the conclusion. Postoperative day 1 CT scan confirmed stone-free status and he was discharged postoperative day 2. Outpatient nephrostogram demonstrated patency of bilateral ureters and nephrostomy tubes were removed.Conclusion: Higher morbidity procedures including open or laparoscopic approaches have been described for management of large lower urinary tract stones. In this video, we demonstrate a minimally invasive approach of combined simultaneous antegrade and retrograde lithotripsy to achieve a stone-free status in this morbidly obese and complicated patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Authors from the USA present a multi-centre experience using a transportable lithotripter for treating stones in all parts of the urinary tract. They found the lithotripter to be safe and effective, and felt that the Medstone STS-T represents an advance in the development of transportable lithotripters. A very large experience of partial nephrectomy for various reasons is presented by German authors. Of 717 patients, 65 had either a solitary kidney, synchronous bilateral tumours, or renal failure in the opposite kidney. They describe their technique using perfusion-cooling, and found that long-term dialysis could be avoided. To review a multicentre experience of using a transportable lithotripter (STS-T, Medstone, Inc, Aliso Viejo, CA. USA) for treating patients with urolithiasis in all parts of the urinary tract. In all, 326 patients with a total of 370 stones were treated as outpatients with the STS-T lithotripter. All patients received a single shock wave lithotripsy treatment and were followed after 4–6 weeks in the outpatient clinic, the primary endpoint being to determine the efficacy (as defined by the stone-free rate). Secondary objectives included establishing a database of patient demographic information, stone characteristics, stone location, procedural endpoints, and complication rates. In all there were 370 procedures, with a mean of 2394 shocks administered at an energy level of 24 kV. The mean treatment time was 51 min, excluding anaesthesia-induction time. The mean stone aggregate size was 8.2 mm; 62% of the stones were in the kidney while 38% were in various locations in the ureter. Of the treated stones, 90% had definite or probable evidence of fragmentation. The overall stone-free rate after one treatment with the STS-T was 52.8%. Of patients with residual fragments, most (61%) had fragments of <4 mm in aggregate diameter. The overall complication rate was 3.8%, the most common complication being postoperative pain. The Medstone STS-T lithotripter was an effective device for treating urolithiasis in all parts of the urinary tract. This system had a high margin of safety, as shown by the low complication rate. With no apparent sacrifice of efficacy compared to first-generation or fixed (not transportable) second-generation devices, the Medstone STS-T represents an important advance in the development of a truly transportable lithotripter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]