Combination therapy in the treatment of patients with staghorn calculi.

Abstract

The treatment of patients with staghorn calculi remains a challenging problem. Combination therapy using percutaneous nephrolithotomy and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy has been recommended as the best option for most patients. Using this technique, 10 (83%) of 12 renal units with partial or complete staghorn calculi were rendered stone-free, with no significant septic episodes or serious complications. Blood transfusion was necessary in three patients. "Sandwich" therapy using initial percutaneous debulking followed by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy and/or "second-look" nephroscopy offers patients a high likelihood of achieving a stone-free state while avoiding the morbidity and lengthy recovery associated with open surgery.

• Authors: G S Gerber
• Journal: Techniques in urology (Tech Urol) Vol. 5 Issue 3 Pg. 155-8 (Sep 1999) ISSN: 1079-3259 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10527260 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Magnesium Compounds
• Phosphates
• Struvite

Topics

• Combined Modality Therapy
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Kidney Calculi (chemistry, diagnostic imaging, therapy)
• Lithotripsy (methods)
• Magnesium Compounds (chemistry)
• Nephrostomy, Percutaneous (methods)
• Phosphates (chemistry)
• Radiography
• Struvite
• Treatment Outcome