Lithotomy: Difference between revisions

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

CSV import
CSV import
 
Line 1: Line 1:
== Lithotomy ==
{{short description|Surgical method for removal of stones}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}


[[File:Lithotomy Nefrolit.jpg|thumb|right|Illustration of a lithotomy procedure]]
==Lithotomy==
[[File:Nefrolit.jpg|thumb|right|Illustration of a lithotomy procedure]]
'''Lithotomy''' is a surgical procedure for the removal of [[calculi]] (stones) from the [[urinary tract]], including the [[kidney]], [[ureter]], [[bladder]], and [[urethra]]. The term is derived from the Greek words "lithos" meaning "stone" and "tomos" meaning "cut".


'''Lithotomy''' is a surgical procedure for the removal of [[kidney stones]] (calculi) from the [[urinary tract]]. The term "lithotomy" is derived from the Greek words "lithos" meaning "stone" and "tomos" meaning "cut". This procedure has been practiced since ancient times and has evolved significantly with advancements in medical technology.
==History==
The practice of lithotomy dates back to ancient times, with evidence of the procedure being performed in ancient [[India]] and [[Greece]]. The [[Hippocratic Oath]] even includes a clause that advises physicians to "leave the cutting of the stone to those who are practitioners of this work."


== History ==
==Procedure==
Lithotomy involves making an incision in the body to access the stone. The specific approach depends on the location of the stone:


The practice of lithotomy dates back to ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, who developed early techniques for stone removal. The procedure was historically performed without anesthesia, making it extremely painful and risky. The development of anesthesia and antiseptic techniques in the 19th century greatly improved the safety and efficacy of lithotomy.
* '''[[Nephrolithotomy]]''': This is performed to remove stones from the [[kidney]]. It involves making an incision in the flank to access the kidney directly.
* '''[[Ureterolithotomy]]''': This procedure is used to remove stones from the [[ureter]]. An incision is made in the abdominal or flank area to access the ureter.
* '''[[Cystolithotomy]]''': This involves removing stones from the [[bladder]]. An incision is made in the lower abdomen to access the bladder.
* '''[[Urethrolithotomy]]''': This is performed to remove stones from the [[urethra]].


== Procedure ==
==Modern Techniques==
In modern medicine, lithotomy has largely been replaced by less invasive techniques such as [[extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy]] (ESWL), [[ureteroscopy]], and [[percutaneous nephrolithotomy]] (PCNL). These methods reduce the need for open surgery and have shorter recovery times.


Lithotomy involves making an incision in the lower abdomen or perineum to access the bladder or ureters, where stones are located. The stones are then removed manually or with the aid of surgical instruments. Modern techniques may involve the use of [[endoscopy]] or [[laparoscopy]] to minimize invasiveness.
==Complications==
As with any surgical procedure, lithotomy carries risks of complications, including infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding tissues. Advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care have significantly reduced these risks.


=== Positioning ===
==Position==
The term "lithotomy position" refers to a common position used in various surgical procedures, including gynecological and urological surgeries. In this position, the patient lies on their back with the legs flexed 90 degrees at the hips and knees, often supported by stirrups.


The patient is typically placed in the [[lithotomy position]], which involves lying on the back with the legs flexed and supported in stirrups. This position provides optimal access to the pelvic region for the surgeon.
==Related pages==
 
=== Techniques ===
 
Several techniques can be employed during a lithotomy, including:
 
* '''Open lithotomy''': Traditional method involving a large incision.
* '''Endoscopic lithotomy''': Utilizes an endoscope to remove stones with minimal incisions.
* '''Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)''': Involves a small incision in the back to access the kidney directly.
 
== Complications ==
 
As with any surgical procedure, lithotomy carries potential risks and complications, such as:
 
* Infection
* Bleeding
* Injury to surrounding organs
* Recurrence of stones
 
== Modern Alternatives ==
 
Advancements in medical technology have introduced less invasive alternatives to traditional lithotomy, such as:
 
* [[Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)]]: Uses shock waves to break stones into smaller pieces that can be passed naturally.
* [[Ureteroscopy]]: Involves the use of a ureteroscope to remove stones from the ureter or kidney.
 
== Related pages ==
 
* [[Kidney stone]]
* [[Urology]]
* [[Urology]]
* [[Endoscopy]]
* [[Nephrology]]
* [[Laparoscopy]]
* [[Surgery]]
* [[Kidney stone disease]]


[[Category:Surgical procedures]]
[[Category:Surgical procedures]]
[[Category:Urology]]
[[Category:Urology]]
[[Category:Nephrology]]

Latest revision as of 14:19, 21 February 2025

Surgical method for removal of stones



Lithotomy[edit]

Illustration of a lithotomy procedure

Lithotomy is a surgical procedure for the removal of calculi (stones) from the urinary tract, including the kidney, ureter, bladder, and urethra. The term is derived from the Greek words "lithos" meaning "stone" and "tomos" meaning "cut".

History[edit]

The practice of lithotomy dates back to ancient times, with evidence of the procedure being performed in ancient India and Greece. The Hippocratic Oath even includes a clause that advises physicians to "leave the cutting of the stone to those who are practitioners of this work."

Procedure[edit]

Lithotomy involves making an incision in the body to access the stone. The specific approach depends on the location of the stone:

  • Nephrolithotomy: This is performed to remove stones from the kidney. It involves making an incision in the flank to access the kidney directly.
  • Ureterolithotomy: This procedure is used to remove stones from the ureter. An incision is made in the abdominal or flank area to access the ureter.
  • Cystolithotomy: This involves removing stones from the bladder. An incision is made in the lower abdomen to access the bladder.
  • Urethrolithotomy: This is performed to remove stones from the urethra.

Modern Techniques[edit]

In modern medicine, lithotomy has largely been replaced by less invasive techniques such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), ureteroscopy, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). These methods reduce the need for open surgery and have shorter recovery times.

Complications[edit]

As with any surgical procedure, lithotomy carries risks of complications, including infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding tissues. Advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care have significantly reduced these risks.

Position[edit]

The term "lithotomy position" refers to a common position used in various surgical procedures, including gynecological and urological surgeries. In this position, the patient lies on their back with the legs flexed 90 degrees at the hips and knees, often supported by stirrups.

Related pages[edit]