Pneumatic Lithotripsy in Urology
A Proven Technique for Effective Stone Fragmentation
Urinary stone disease is a growing global health concern, affecting nearly 1 in 10 people during their lifetime. The formation of stones in the kidney, ureter, or bladder—known medically as urolithiasis—is often linked to a combination of dietary habits, dehydration, metabolic disorders, infections, and genetic predisposition. Common types of stones include calcium, uric acid, and cystine stones, each varying in hardness and treatment approach.
When is Lithotripsy Required?
While small stones may pass spontaneously with increased fluid intake and medication, larger or obstructive stones often require intervention. This is where lithotripsy comes in—a technique that breaks down stones into smaller fragments that can be removed or passed naturally.
Lithotripsy can be of various types:
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) – Non-invasive, but less effective for hard or large stones
- Laser Lithotripsy – Precise but costly and more complex to operate
- Pneumatic Lithotripsy – Time-tested, powerful, equipment wise most reliable and ideal for hard stones during endoscopic procedures like URS and PCNL
The Role of Pneumatic Lithotripsy
Pneumatic lithotripsy uses compressed air to deliver rapid mechanical pulses through a metal probe. These pulses directly contact the stone, causing it to fracture into smaller, manageable pieces. The technique is highly effective for hard stones and is often preferred for its speed, simplicity, and minimal thermal damage.
Introducing Calculiclast: Intracorporeal Pneumatic Lithotripsy System
Status Medical Equipments India Pvt Ltd, is one of the pioneer manufacturers of Pneumatic Lithotripter under the brand name “Calculiclast” —a robust and high-performance pneumatic pressure lithotripsy device engineered for efficiency, durability, and surgical precision. Status is manufacturing Calculiclast for last 30 years.
✅ Key Benefits of Calculiclast:
- High-impact pneumatic force ensures quick fragmentation of even the hardest stones
- Lightweight and ergonomic handpiece for surgeon comfort during long procedures
- Precise manufacturing of handpieces assures minimum lateral movement of the probe
- Simple plug-and-play operation—ideal for high-volume centers and resource-limited settings
- Reusable probes of various sizes, compatible with standard rigid endoscopes
- Low maintenance and long service life
Clinical Applications of Calculiclast:
- Ureteroscopy (URS): For mid- and lower ureteric stones
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): For large renal calculi
- Also used in Cystoscopy along with special 1.5mm probe
During the procedure, the surgeon inserts the probe through the working channel of the endoscope. Once the stone is located visually, Calculiclast is activated, delivering rapid pneumatic pulses that fragment the stone efficiently without overheating or damaging surrounding tissues.
Conclusion
In the evolving field of endourology, mainly in stone fragmentation, pneumatic lithotripsy remains a trusted and effective solution, particularly in regions with high stone burden and limited access to high-cost alternatives. In fact, every urology OT have at least one Pneumatic Lithotripter as a standby, reliable equipment. With its rugged design, clinical versatility, and proven outcomes, Calculiclast continues to support urologists in delivering quality stone care—one pulse at a time.
For more information, visit www.statmedi.com or contact us at info@statmedi.com
