Development of a new diagnostic device for extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy

摘要: Extracorporeal Shock-Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is the leading technique for non-invasive treatment of urinary stones. Thousands ultrasound shocks are focused on stones in order to break them into fragments small enough be passed naturally by body. The procedure well established, though re-treatment rate around 50%. One limits that there no capability on-line monitoring degree fragmentation stone. output treatments could probably improved if this facility was made available. underlying physical mechanisms responsible break-up stone still subject investigation. However both direct stress damage and indirect cavitation erosion seem necessary obtain eliminable fragments. In previous studies, Coleman et al. monitored in-vivo through associated acoustic emissions. objective research design a new diagnostic device lithotripsy, exploiting information carried these After preliminary laboratory experiments some clinical prototypes were developed collaboration with Precision Acoustic Ltd., UK. currently been tested clinic.