Cook Medical has announced a new device to simplify percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedures, during which physicians break up and remove kidney stones.
It can also be used in the break-up of bladder stones.
LithAssist is the first device available to EU and US physicians that provides suction control and laser fiber access.
Approximately 20,000 PCNL procedures are performed each year in the UK and 466,000 globally.
Prior to the availability of LithAssist, suction was controlled by kinking a tube, similar to the way in which one would stop water flow from a garden hose. LithAssist allows physicians to control over the amount of suction during the procedure. The ergonomic handle is designed to allow the physician to position the laser fiber and suction with one hand. Not only does this synchronise the procedure by giving the physician the opportunity to have more direct control, but it also may free an assistant to help with other aspects of the procedure.
LithAssist is designed to work with any holmium laser, so hospitals can use their current equipment and don’t have to purchase any additional capital equipment.
“Our goal for this product is to help physicians use their lasers for PCNL procedures in a simpler way,” said Jean-Marc Creissel, global leader of Cook Medical’s urology division.
“Streamlined procedures are beneficial for the physician, the hospital and ultimately the patient. This is just one more example of our commitment to solving problems for physicians.”
LithAssist received CE marking in September 2013.