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.


METHODS
A prospective observational study.


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


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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
SanaUllah
Department of Urology, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore.
Kamran
Tahir
T
Zaheer
Kashif
K
Akhtar
Mohammad Saleem
MS
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008096:Lithotripsy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014514:Ureteral Calculi / Q000628:therapy*