A novel technique combining ultrasonic propulsion and burst wave lithotripsy (BWL) may offer an option to remove ureteral stones with minimal pain and no anesthesia. This new process involves the physician using a handheld transducer to be placed in contact with the patient’s skin to direct the ultrasound waves to the stone. The ultrasound can then be used to reposition the stones, aiding their passage through ultrasound propulsion or breaking the stones using BWL.
A recent study evaluated the efficacy of this technique in repositing ureteral stones and facilitating their passage in awake subjects. The stone motion was observed in 66% of patients, while the stone passed in 86% of patients, and fragmentation was observed in 54% of BWL patients of the 29 subjects who participated in the study. Unlike the standard shock wave lithotripsy, this procedure is almost painless and can be done…
