Laser Lithotripsy in Renal Lithiasis - 2023 Update - a Narative Review.

Abstract

Introduction: Urolithiasis is a serious health issue that is constantly getting worse around the world. In relation to laser lithotripsy, new techniques and technological advancements have emerged, giving urologists a wide range of choices for treating stone disease. The objective of the present review is to provide an overview of the most current developments and show how effective they are for reducing complications and boosting surgical effectiveness.

Material and method: In October 2023, we performed a comprehensive search of the literature, including relevant articles using the PubMed international database to identify related publications concerning ureteroscopic laser stone lithotripsy in renal lithiasis. Both review and original articles were selected. Searches were limited to studies written in English which involved human and adult subjects.

Results: All eligible studies concerning ureteroscopic laser lithotripsy were published in 2022 and 2023. They were conducted in Asia (5/10), the North America (3/10) and Europe (2/10), and totalized 1570 patients with an age range between 18 and 85 years. Regarding the primary efficacy outcome, all studies focused on stone free rates (SFRs), complications and average operative time.

Conclusion: The rising frequency and incidence of stone disease has led to ongoing breakthroughs in endourology through technological advancements and ongoing developments. Unlike the relatively well-known Holmium laser, which has several uses in the field of stone lithotripsy, Thulium fiber laser (TFL) is a brand-new technological arrangement.