Journal of endourology
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Journal of endourology · Oct 2010
Multicenter StudyFlexible ureterorenoscopy and holmium laser lithotripsy for the management of renal stone burdens that measure 2 to 3 cm: a multi-institutional experience.
Percutaneous nephrostolithotomy (PCNL) is the current standard of care for management of large renal stones (>2 cm). Recent studies have evaluated flexible ureterorenoscopy (URS)/holmium laser lithotripsy as an alternative treatment for patients with contraindications to or preference against PCNL. Stones in an intermediate size range (2-3 cm) may be most amenable to URS/laser lithotripsy as definitive treatment in a single stage. We report a multi-institutional series of URS/laser lithotripsy for renal stone burdens that measure 2 to 3 cm. ⋯ We demonstrate that single-stage URS/holmium laser lithotripsy is effective for management of renal stones that measure 2 to 3 cm through intermediate follow-up. Staged procedures can be used selectively for technical reasons or disease factors. Although PCNL achieves superior stone clearance overall, URS/laser lithotripsy is a viable treatment option for selected patients.