Flexible ultrasonic lithotriptor and fiberoptic ureterorenoscope: a new approach to ureteral calculi.

A newly developed flexible ultrasonic lithotriptor has been used with a fiberoptic ureterorenoscope for removal of upper ureteral and kidney stones. There was an 87.5 per cent success rate in 16 patients. This technique can be used safely and effectively to remove mid and upper ureteral stones not amenable to extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or the rigid ureterorenoscope.