Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy.

We report about the successful laparoscopic removal of ureteral stones. Since July 1993, 21 patients with large ureteral calculi have undergone laparoscopic ureterolithotomy. In 19 of 21 patients, laparoscopic ureterolithotomy was successful. The mean operating time was 90 minutes. The postoperative inhospital stay was 1 to 4 days. Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy offers an alternative to open surgery in patients with large ureteral stones or when less invasive measures fail.