Laser lithotripsy

Laser Lithotripsy

Laser lithotripsy (pronounced: /ˈlaɪzər lɪˈθɒtrɪpsi/) is a medical procedure used to treat kidney stones and gallstones. The term is derived from the Greek words "lithos" meaning stone and "tripsis" meaning rubbing or friction.

Procedure

During a laser lithotripsy, a ureteroscope is inserted into the patient's body through the urethra, bladder, and then into the ureter where the stone is located. A laser fiber is then passed through the ureteroscope to deliver laser energy to break the stone into smaller pieces that can be passed naturally through the urine.

Types of Lasers

There are two main types of lasers used in lithotripsy: the Holmium:YAG laser and the Thulium fiber laser. Both lasers are effective in fragmenting stones of all compositions.

Risks and Complications

Like all medical procedures, laser lithotripsy carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, damage to the ureter, and incomplete stone fragmentation.