Abstract
The Siemens Lithostar is a second-generation extracorporeal shock wave lithotripter that uses an electromagnetic acoustic (EMAS) source to achieve lithotripsy. Initial experience with 175 patients (212 treatments) reveals a fragmentation rate of 87% with the majority of patients being treated with minimal or no anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Follow-up at 3 months shows a stone-free rate of 59% with 11% of patients having fragments ≥5 mm. The advantages of this form of lithotripsy include the need for minimal or no anesthesia, the possibility of outpatient treatment, the presence of a cystoscopy table incorporated into the unit, and the ability to obtain hard-copy radiographs during treatment.
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