Laser-induced lithotripsy and photodynamic therapy in urology – A short introduction to current laser applications

Abstract

Laser-induced lithotripsy and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are among the most important laser applications in urology. Laser lithotripsy has revolutionized urinary calculi treatment. Today, Ho:YAG laser lithotripsy using a small-caliber ureteroscope can be considered to be the first choice for treatment of ureteral calculi. In contrast to laser-induced lithotripsy, PDT is not yet firmly established in urological clinical routine. However, preclinical and clinical trials with PDT in urology are showing promise in the treatment of malignancies at multiple sites. The present article gives a review of the literature from both fields and discusses the current status of laser lithotripsy and PDT in urology.