Ureteroscopic Holmium:YAG laser lithotripsy is effective for ureteral steinstrasse post-SWL

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Holmium: YAG laser lithotripsy for ureteral steinstrasse after extracorporeal shock lithotripsy (SWL). Material and methods: Holmium: YAG laser lithotripsy was performed on 21 patients who had developed ureteral steinstrasse post-SWL. Results: Nineteen cases had successful treatment. The ureteral steinstrasse was cleared within one month after the treatment (success rate of 90.48%). Upper ureteral steinstrasse shifted to the renal pelvis was noted in one patient, who underwent a second SWL treatment. Another patient had a severely kinking ureter and underwent open surgery after ureteroscopy failed. Conclusion: Holmium: YAG laser lithotripsy of ureteral steinstrasse post-SWL is an effective clinical modality due to its high success rate, short lithotripsy time, high safety and reliability, and easy feasibility.