Ureteroscopic lithotripsy with holmium laser for treatment of ureteral calculi ( Report of 312 cases)

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Holmium laser lithotripsy for the treatment of ureteral calculi. Methods from October 2005 to April 2007 the clinical data of 312 cases of ureteral calculi treated by ureteroscope with Holmium laser lithotriptor were analyzed retrospectively. Among these patients,94 patients with stones were in the upper ureter,and 218 cases were in the mid-lower level. Results The overall successful lithotripsy rate for ureteral stones was 92.6%(289/312),while the grinding rate of upper one and mid-lower were 81.9%(77/94) and 96.3%(210/218) respectively. The average operation time was 53.4±23.6 min. The average postoperative hospitalization was 5.4±1.5 d. 3 patients were transferred to open surgery for ureteral twist. 5 patients had urinary infection. No complications,such as ureteral perforation or laceration,were seen after operations. Conclusions Ureteroscopic lithotripsy with Holmium laser is a safe and effective method for treating ureteral ealculi.