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To describe the initial clinical experience with the UreTron (Med-Sonics, Erie, PA), a new ultrasonic lithotriptor. Historically, ultrasound-only intracorporeal lithotriptors have been considered the gold standard for stone removal during percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Recently, they have lost favor to newer dual and combination devices believed by many to be more efficient. The UreTron features patented technology to precisely control probe vibration and achieve more efficient output potentially improving efficiency of stone clearance. To date, the clinical efficacy of this new device has yet to be tested relative to alternative state-of-the-art lithotriptors.

Thirty-one patients with renal stones >2 cm undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy were studied. All cases were performed by the same surgeon, and data were recorded prospectively using the same protocol established for a separate ongoing …