Advanced Technology in Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy The Dornier MPL 9000 versus the Upgraded Dornier HM₃

Abstract

The Dornier HM₃ kidney lithotripter represents the worldwide accepted standard of extracorporeal stone disintegration. Supplemented with a 40 nf generator (v 80 nf) and an enlarged ellipsoid ( 17 cm v 14 cm) more than 95% of ESWL treatments are possible with IV analgesia (with Tramadol). A successful stone disintegration was noted in 98%.

The Dornier multi-purpose lithotripter MPL 9000 represents a third-generation lithotripter for both kidney stones and gallbladder stones, using an ultrasound localization system and tubless shock wave coupling. The MPL 9000 and the upgraded HM₃ were compared considering success rate, pain reaction, range of indications, and reliability of localization.

Although both machines showed similar success rates, the use of the MPL 9000 was limited by ultrasound-guided localization of kidney stones, upper ureteral calculi causing obstruction and intramural lower ureteral stones. Advantages of the MPL 9000 included treatments in the prone position for lower ureteral stones and treatments of calculi in horseshoe kidneys.