Rigid transurethral ureteroscopy was used in the treatment of 31 patients with 32 ureteral calculi. The stones could be visualized in 90% of cases. The aim of treatment was immediate extraction under visual control for smaller calculi and retrograde advancement into the renal pelvis with subsequent extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for larger calculi. The aim of treatment was reached in 92% (11/12) of stones in the lower third of the ureter, in 67% (4/6) in the middle third and in 64% (9/14) in the upper third of the ureter leaving 12 calculi extracted and 12 pushed up into the renal pelvis. Electrohydraulic lithotripsy in the ureter was used in 3 cases before extraction. Ureterolithotomy had to be carried out in 3 patients only (9%) following the endoscopic procedure.
Catheterization Endoscopes