Stone technology: intracorporeal lithotripters.

PURPOSE: Intracorporeal lithotripsy is becoming the most commonly used surgical method of stone treatment in Urology. The five major types of intracorporeal lithotripters are ultrasonic, ballistic, and combination lithotripters as well as laser and electrohydraulic lithotripters. The advantages and disadvantages of choosing each of these treatment modalities are reviewed.

METHODS: Extensive review of literature was performed to identify the types of intracorporeal lithotripters. An investigation was undertaken of the early development of each modality of intracorporeal lithotripsy and/or the mechanism of action. Challenges of each technique were identified and presented. Finally, a determination was made of how these lithotripters compare on the basis of effectiveness of action and cost based on information provided in primary literature as well as previous reviews of these modalities.

RESULTS: Contemporary lithotripters have found widespread use in the management of urinary lithiasis. Holmium laser lithotripsy has become one of the most commonly used tools for intracorporeal lithotripsy.

CONCLUSION: There is a wide variety of intracorporeal lithotripters which can be chosen based on the characteristics of each modality and the requirements of the urologist.