First Series Using Ultrasonic Propulsion and Burst Wave Lithotripsy to Treat Ureteral Stones
M. Kennedy Hall, Jeff Thiel, Barbrina Dunmire, Patrick Samson, Ross Kessler, Peter Sunaryo, Robert Sweet, Ian Metzler, Helena Chang, Martin L. Gunn, Manjiri Dighe, Layla Anderson, Christina Popchoi, Ravi Managuli, Bryan W. Cunitz, Barbara H. Burke, Lisa Ding, Brianna Gutierrez, Ziyue Liu, Mathew D. Sorensen, Hunter Wessells, Michael R. Bailey, Jonathan D. Harper
Abstract
PURPOSE: Our goal was to test transcutaneous focused ultrasound in the form of ultrasonic propulsion and burst wave lithotripsy to reposition ureteral stones and facilitate passage in awake subjects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult subjects with a diagnosed proximal or distal ureteral stone were prospectively recruited. Ultrasonic propulsion alone or with burst wave lithotripsy was administered by a handheld transducer to awake, unanesthetized subjects. Efficacy outcomes included stone motion, stone passage, and pain relief. Safety outcome was the reporting of associated anticipated or adverse events. RESULTS: = .03). Anticipated events were limited to hematuria on initial urination post-procedure and mild pain. In total, 7 subjects had associated discomfort with only 2.2% (18 of 820) propulsion bursts. CONCLUSIONS: This study supports the efficacy and safety of using ultrasonic propulsion and burst wave lithotripsy in awake subjects to reposition and break ureteral stones to relieve pain and facilitate passage.