상 부 요석에서 의 복강 경 요관절석술 의 유용성 Efficacy of Laparoscopic Ureterolithotomy for the

Purpose: Ureter stones are the most common urological disease. The principal objective of this study was to evaluate the results, efficacy, and safety rates of laparoscopic ureterolithotomy for the treatment of large, upper ureteral stones. Materials and Methods: Between April 2006 and February 2008, we con-ducted laparoscopic ureterolithotomy in 7 patients with upper ureter stones (L2-3). Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy was conducted in 5 patients as a salvage procedure after failed shock wave lithotripsy, in 1 patient as the primary procedure for a large stone (28mm), and in 1 patient for treatment of a radiolucent matrix stone. Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy was conducted via a transperitoneal approach. The mean stone size was 20.7±5.9mm. Results: Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy was successful in 7 patients, and none of the patients required an open procedure. All patients were rendered stone-free after a single procedure. The mean operative duration