Alexandrite Laser Lithotripter in Experimental and First Clinical Application

Abstract
Laser lithotripsy in association with flexible or semirigid "miniscopes" is gaining increasing importance for ureteric stone therapy. So far, the Nd:YAG and the pulsed dye lasers have been used in clinical applications. Because each of these systems has its specific drawbacks, the solid-state alexandrite laser was developed to combine the advantages of the two existing systems. The results of in vitro and in vivo evaluation as well as the first clinical experiences with this new system are presented.