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In-vitro comparison of two electromagnetic shock-wave generators: low-pressure-wide focus versus high-pressure small focus – the impact on initial stone fragmentation and final stone comminution

J Endourol. 2021 Jul 27. doi: 10.1089/end.2021.0416. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

CONTEXT: Recently developed concepts for higher efficacy ESWL with low-pressure wide focus systems resulting in finer fragmentation of the calculi.

OBJECTIVE: To compare two different electromagnetic shock wave sources (low-pressure wide focus (XL) versus high-pressure small focus (SL)) by sound-field measurements and in-vitro fragmentation.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: The CS-2012A XX-ES lithotripter (self-focusing electromagnetic shock-wave generator with concave spherical curved electrical coil; Xinin Lithotripter = XL) was compared to the Siemens Lithoskop (= SL) (electromagnetic generator with a flat electric coil with an acoustical lens). Different sound-field measurements were performed using a fiber-optic hydrophone. Measurements at three different power settings (XL: 8.0kV, 9.3kV and 10.3kV; SL: Level 1, 5 and 8). 10 ATS-stones and 15 BegoStones (9.3 kV, Level 3) with a frequency of 90/minute (SL) and 20/minute (XL). Number of impulses to the first crack and for complete stone comminution (residual fragments <2mm) were documented.

RESULTS: The median number of shock waves for the first crack in ATS-stones with the XL was 12 (10-14), with the SL 7 (6-9). Complete disintegration was accomplished after 815 (782-824) shock waves with XL, 702 (688-712) with SL. The difference was not statistically significant. The median number of shock waves to produce the first crack in BegoStones was 524 (504-542) with XL and only 151 (137-161) with SL. Numbers of shock waves for complete disintegration did not differ significantly (XL:2518 vs SL:2287). Using a wide focus with low pressure shows more homogeneous disintegration.

CONCLUSION: Two stone models showed significant differences regarding form and time of the initial fragmentation. Impulses for stone comminution did not differ significantly. The advantages of a low-pressure wide focus-system include minimal trauma and a homogeneous fragment size but is more time consuming. High-pressure small focus systems are clinically effective.

PMID:34314251 | DOI:10.1089/end.2021.0416

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