title: The Swiss Lithoclast: a new device for intracorporeal lithotripsy.
abstract: Modalities available for performing intracorporeal lithotripsy include ultrasonic, electrohydraulic and laser procedures. We present our experience with a new and unique technology for performing intracorporeal lithotripsy, namely the Swiss Lithoclast. This simple and inexpensive device uses compressed air to activate a solid probe in a manner similar to that of a jackhammer. We report the use of the Lithoclast in 31 cases, consisting of 6 renal calculi approached percutaneously, 17 ureteral calculi and 8 bladder calculi. The Lithoclast successfully fragmented 94% of the calculi. There were no intraoperative or long-term complications directly related to the use of this device. We have found the Swiss Lithoclast to be a safe, effective and inexpensive means of performing intracorporeal lithotripsy for calculi located throughout the urinary tract.
authors.affiliation: Division of Urology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
authors.forename: J D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Denstedt
authors.forename: P M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Eberwein
authors.forename: R R
authors.initials: RR
authors.lastname: Singh
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008096:Lithotripsy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014545:Urinary Calculi / Q000737:chemistry / Q000628:therapy*