Endoscopic Lithotripsy for the Upper Urinary Tract Stones in the Elderly and Bedridden Patients

Abstract

Urolithiasis in the elderly is an increasing problem in Japan. The elderly patients include more female patients, and had more urinary infections, higher cardiovascular risks and anesthetic risks. Endoscopic lithotripsy with holmium:YAG laser is an effective and safe treatment for the elderly patients. Especially for multiple infection stones in the bedridden patients, we should perform the proper drainage to control the urinary infection, and then aim at the complete stone-free status by taking advantages of endoscopic techniques.