Mechanical Lithotripsy Case Study

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Mechanical lithotripsy In 1982, Riemann et al,first introduced mechanical lithotripsy (ML). ML is currently the most widely used technique for fragmentation of stones. Contemporary lithotripter baskets have a high breaking strengths and have improved the success rate of ML for extraction of large CBD stones (> 2 cm) to well over 90% without serious complications. Broadly speaking, there are two types of baskets for ML. The type of basket used depends on whether lithotripsy is done on an elective (“through the scope”) basis or on an emergent basis (salvage device) for basket impaction The ‘through the scope’ model is typically a three-layer system with the basket, inner plastic sheath, and an outer metal sheath The stone is captured with the …show more content…

Unfortunately the failure rate is high especially in patients with stones greater than 2.8 cm in diameter. In a retrospective study the size of the stone was the only factor that significantly affected the success or failure of bile duct clearance. In this study of 162 patients, the cumulative probability of bile duct clearance ranged from > 90% for stones with a diameter less than 10 mm to 68% for those greater than 28 mm in diameter the rate of complications associated with ML to be around 3.6%[]. Among the spectrum of complications, basket impaction or fracture of the basket wire are uniquely associated with ML. Non-surgical interventions that have been utilized in this setting include extension of sphincterotomy, awaiting spontaneous passage of the impacted basket and stone after successful stent placement, use of a second lithotripter, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), laser lithotripsy, electrohydraulic lithotripsy, and transhepatic lithotripsy and stone dislodgement. Other complications include broken handle and perforation or injury to the bile duct In about 10% of the patients ML proves to be cumbersome, protracted and ineffectivewherein one has to resort to other methods such as electrohydraulic, or laser lithotripsy for stone fragmentation and subsequent removal. Electrohydraulic …show more content…

The pulsed laser energy utilized in stone fragmentation is in contrast to the continuous laser energy used in tumor ablation. LL is typically performed perorally under cholangioscopic or fluoroscopic guidance or by the transhepatic approach. As with EHL, LL under direct visualization using a cholangioscope is often preferred to avoid damage to the ductal wall A recent innovation worth mentioning is the introduction of a double-lumen basket which allows passage of a laser probe for effective laser lithotripsy after the stone is captured by the basket.For a selected group of patients, this technique was shown to be feasible and effective, and the authors hope that continuous improvements in designs and construction materials would further enhance the success rate of this device Extracorporeal shockwave

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