In vitro effects of pulsed holmium laser energy on canine uroliths and porcine cadaveric urethra

Lasers Surg Med. 2003;33(4):243-6. doi: 10.1002/lsm.10222.

Abstract

Background and objectives: To assess the effect of holmium laser energy on canine uroliths and porcine urethra.

Study design/materials and methods: Uroliths of known composition and fresh cadaveric urethra were exposed to holmium laser energy. Urolith fragmentation times and depth of urethral lesions were determined.

Results: Overall mean fragmentation time was 11.8 +/- 8.01 seconds. Magnesium ammonium phosphate (MAP) and urate uroliths had significantly shorter fragmentation times compared to other uroliths. Fragmentation time of MAP uroliths irradiated with 1.2 J/pulse was significantly longer than the fragmentation time of MAP uroliths irradiated with 0.3 J/pulse. Overall mean lesion depth for urethral specimens treated with 90 degrees contact mode irradiation was significantly greater than overall mean lesion depth for specimens treated with 30 degrees non-contact mode.

Conclusions: Holmium laser energy effectively fragmented canine uroliths and caused minimal urethral damage in vitro. Dogs with urolithiasis may represent a useful animal model for developing human lithotripsy procedures.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Dogs
  • Holmium
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Lasers*
  • Lithotripsy, Laser
  • Swine
  • Urethra / pathology*
  • Urethra / radiation effects
  • Urinary Calculi / pathology*
  • Urinary Calculi / therapy

Substances

  • Holmium