Case report: Holmium laser resection and lasertripsy for intravesical ureterocele with calculus

The holmium laser has established an important role in urology, particularl y in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and urolithiasis. Its light (wavelength 2140 nm) has a high coefficient of absorption in wate r, such that 95% of the laser energy is absorbed in 0.5 mm of water. Thus, the majority of the laser energy is contained superficially, imparting the holmium laser with excellent cutting and tissue ablation properties. It pro vides sharp incision with simultaneous hemostasis. Perhaps the most signifi cant benefit of the holmium laser is its versatility when delivered through rigid or flexible endoscopes using quartz fibers of various sizes. We pres ent the use of this laser in the ablation of an intravesical ureterocele wi th calculus. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.