Abstract
Background and Purpose
: Endoscopic lithotripsy is still the method of choice for a number of stones, especially large stones. Various disintegration techniques exist. We investigated the combination of two of these techniques: ultrasound and pneumatic lithotripsy.
Patients and Methods
: Fourteen consecutive patients with renal and one patient with bladder stones were treated with this new device. Ultrasound and pneumatic lithotripsy could be used independently or simultaneously.
Results
: Disintegration and stone removal was fast. The use of forceps or other instruments could generally be avoided. No complications attributable to the lithotripsy device were observed.
Conclusion
: The combined ultrasound/pneumatic lithotripsy device is safe and highly effective. It reduces treatment time and enhances surgeon's comfort.
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