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Laser Lithotripsy

Laser lithotripsy is a procedure where pulses of intense laser light are used to break up urinary calculi or “stones” that have formed in the urinary tract, including the bladder or kidney. When these stones grow so large that they cannot be passed out of the body easily, they obstruct the normal flow of urine and can cause extreme pain, infection or kidney damage.

When is the treatment used?

Laser lithotripsy is most often used in very large or difficult to reach stones where other treatments have failed and/or major surgery may be the only other option.

In laser lithotripsy, the laser energy fragments the stone so it may be easily be removed.

The procedure usually is performed on an outpatient basis, which means you can go home after a brief recovery period.

What other treatments are there for urinary stones?

Most patients with bladder or kidney stones can be successfully treated without major surgery. Options like these are available:

• doctors may place a small tube-like instrument called a cystoscope into the urinary tract and remove stones with a specially designed stone grasping instrument.
• another treatment places patients in a water bath and uses high-energy shock waves to break up stones.
  

How can I learn more about laser lithotripsy?

For more information about laser lithotripsy, talk to your doctor or contact us at 612-863-5982.
 

Abbott Northwestern Hospital
Department of Surgical, Perioperative and Anesthesia Services
800 E. 28th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-863-5982
E-mail us

First published: 03/01/2000
Last updated: 03/01/2005

Reviewed by: James Larson, MD