In vitro lithotripsy with the Alexandrite laser.

Abstract

The Alexandrite laser system has proven to be an effective and safe method of ureteral lithotripsy. Some authors have recently reported the risk of interspersion of fiber splinters into tissue during lithotripsy, when short pulses and high power densities are employed. In vitro lithotripsy on renal calculi artificially placed in human ureters was realized under the parameters of a manufactured model (Alexantriptor, HMT). We have observed neither interspersion of fragments nor ureteral damage. These in vitro experiments and our clinical experience confirm that Alexandrite laser lithotripsy is reliable and safe.