Ultrasonic and electrohydraulic lithotripsy of ureteral calculi.

Ultrasonic lithotripsy of ureteral calculi has been accomplished using a fine flexible ultrasonic probe under direct visual control through a 9-F rigid ureteroscope. Electrohydraulic ureterolithotripsy was performed by passing a 5-F catheter-electrode cystoscopically under fluoroscopic control. Case reports are presented. It is concluded that ultrasonic ureterolithotripsy, using the technique described, is a feasible and safe method. Although stone fragmentation by electrohydraulic ureterolithotripsy is possible, the danger of ureteral injury and urinary extravasation is appreciable.