Information

Despite the high effectiveness of ESWL, as modern medicine has continued to develop, it now also offers alternative bloodless methods for breaking up stones that could not be treated through lithotripsy. Among these methods is laser fragmentation of stones in the kidneys and ureters.

The aim of the VITA Hospital team is to offer our patients the latest developments in modern urology. The Urology Department is equipped with the latest generation of stone-fragmentation laser - the Sphinx Jr. from the German company LISA Laser.

In addition to laser lithotripsy, the Sphinx Jr. laser can also be used for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), bladder tumor surgery, and treatment of other urological conditions. The advantage of the Sphinx Jr. laser over other, non-specialized stone-fragmentation lasers is that penetration and operation within the ureter are much more precise, which maximally protects the tissues from damage.

What is laser stone fragmentation?

Laser fragmentation of stones in the kidneys and ureters is a minimally invasive method for removing calculi. Depending on the specific case, the intervention is performed under spinal, short-term intravenous, or general anesthesia. Using special instruments called ureteroscopes, the affected organ is accessed through the body's natural openings (the ureter). The laser beam is then directed at the stone, breaking it into small fragments.

Advantages of the method

• High success rate - the method is effective in 90-95% of cases, regardless of stone composition
• Minimal risk of complications
• Minimal hospital stay (1 day)
• Suitable for patients with the hardest stones in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder

What should I expect after the surgery?

The usual hospital stay after the procedure is 1 day, and you can return to your daily activities after 1-2 days. In rare cases, it may be necessary to place a special stent in the ureter for a period of about 30 days. It is not uncommon to feel some discomfort, including burning during urination, but these symptoms subside quickly.