Lithotripsy in the Kidneys Ureters and Bladder Using A Laser

Abstract

In this research paper, we address an important aspect of human health: urinary stones and non-surgical urinary stone fragmentation using laser technology. Urinary stones are a worrisome disease due to their widespread prevalence and numerous complications, which cause multiple symptoms, including severe pain, urinary tract obstruction, and recurrent infections. Recently, due to the limitations of traditional surgical methods, the medical field has opened up to laser-based surgery, specifically laser lithotripsy, as an alternative characterized by high precision and less invasive surgery. We will discuss the role of laser technology in fragmenting urinary stones (kidney, ureter, and bladder), the mechanism of stone formation, their classification according to their components, and diagnostic methods. We will also discuss the types of lasers used in lithotripsy, particularly the Nd:YAG laser, the Ho:YAG laser, and the thulium fiber laser (TFL). We will explain the mechanism of stone interaction with the laser, specifically the photothermal and photomechanical effects, the laser settings specific to each part of the urinary tract in terms of power and frequency parameters, and the appropriate laser selection. This research paper contributes to the evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of laser lithotripsy in urology.