Use of LMA Stonebreaker as an intracorporeal lithotrite in the management of ureteral calculi.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

LMA Stonebreaker is a new type of ballistic intracorporeal lithotrite that does not need external electric power or access to compressed air. It is small and portable. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of this lithotrite in the management of ureteral calculi.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 110 patients with ureteral calculi necessitating intracorporeal lithotripsy were prospectively included in the study. The size of the stone, position of the stone, number of shocks needed to fragment the stone to effect complete clearance, and degree of retropulsion were documented in each case, and any evidence of urothelial trauma was noted.

RESULTS

All stones were fragmented, and all patients were rendered stone free. The mean number of shocks needed to fragment the stones was eight. The incidence of retropulsion was 6.36%. There was no evidence of urothelial trauma noted in any patient.

CONCLUSION

LMA Stonebreaker is a safe, effective, cost-effective, robust, and portable device for intracorporeal lithotripsy.