The pulsed dye laser for fragmenting urinary calculi.

Abstract

The properties of a laser which effect stone fragmentation have been studied. The pulsed dye laser emitting at 504 nm. in one microsecond duration pulses appears to be the optimum out of a wide range of parameters tested. The laser is coupled to a 200 micron core fiber; this complete with its cladding has a total diameter of only 0.25 mm. Most calculi are fragmented by a series of pulses of up to 30 mJ. The system is used by firing bursts of pulses with the fiber actually in contact with the stone. The result is a very controlled fragmentation which is particularly suited to use in the confines of the ureter. This modality of treatment utilises less energy than ultrasound or electrohydraulic probes to fragment a stone and the very fine, flexible fiber represents a considerable miniaturization.

• Authors: G Watson, S Murray, S P Dretler, J A Parrish
• Journal: The Journal of urology (J Urol) Vol. 138 Issue 1 Pg. 195-8 (Jul 1987) ISSN: 0022-5347 [Print] United States
• PMID: 2885426 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Magnesium Compounds
• Phosphates
• Calcium Oxalate
• Struvite
• Magnesium

Topics

• Calcium Oxalate
• Humans
• Laser Therapy
• Lithotripsy (methods)
• Lithotripsy, Laser
• Magnesium
• Magnesium Compounds
• Phosphates
• Struvite
• Time Factors
• Urinary Calculi (analysis, therapy)