Ureteroscopic Laser Lithotripsy Versus Ballistic Lithotripsy for Treatment of Middle and Lower Third Ureteric Stones

Abstract

Ureteral calculi are one of the most frequent causes causing obstruction of the urinary tract. The prevalence of urinary tract stone disease is estimated to be 2%-3% and they frequently cause pain and infection as a result of stone impaction and obstruction to the pelvicalyceal system. Spontaneous passage of large and/or impacted ureteral stones occurs less frequently and long observation period is necessary for the unpredictable passage. This may result in partial or even complete renal unit loss if treatment is not promptly provided. Holmium: YAG laser and pneumatic lithoclast were used through semirigid ureteroscopy to fragment the ureteric stones which then left for spontaneous passage or removed by forceps or Dormia basket.