Pneumatic lithotripsy for the management of ureteric calculi.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of Swiss lithoclast in the management of ureteric calculi and complications encountered in lithoclasty.

DESIGN

A prospective observational study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Department of Urology, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore (October 1999 - September 2001).

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Thirty ureteric stones (in 20 subjects) were treated over a 2-year period. Site, size and number of stones were noted in these patients. Swiss lithoclast, introduced through a ureteroscope, was used to break the stone. The Lithotripsy time was 30 min. Stone breakage was assessed by plain X-ray KUB or retrograde pyelography.

RESULTS

Fragmentation was complete in 90 % cases. At one week follow up, 90% of patients were stone-free and at 3 months follow-up 95 % of patients had spontaneous passage of the fragments. Re-treatment was required in 5% cases. Mean hospital stay was 2.4 days. Complications (including both significant and minor) occurred in 25% of cases.

CONCLUSION

Lithoclasty is safe, simple and effective procedure for ureteric calculi. However, complications of the procedure may prolong the usual 48 hours hospital stay seen in uncomplicated cases.