Abstract
In addition to gravity-dependent position, we suppose that other particular anatomic features may be important in the retention of stone debris in lower calices after extracorporeal Shockwave lithotripsy (SWL). We analyzed the inferior-pole collecting system anatomy in 146 three-dimensional polyester resin corrosion endocasts of the pelviocaliceal system. In 74% of the cases, there was an angle of greater than 90° formed between the lower infundibulum and the renal pelvis, and in 26%, the angle was 90° or less. In 60%, there was a lower infundibulum 4 mm or larger in diameter. The inferior pole was drained by multiple calices disposed in two rows in 57% of the cases and by one midline caliceal infundibulum in 43%. We believe that the physician must appreciate these anatomic features when considering SWL to treat calculi located in lower calices.
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