Non-invasive measurement of the temperature rise in tissue surrounding a kidney stone subjected to ultrasonic propulsion.

Transcutaneous focused ultrasound (US) is used to propel kidney stones using acoustic radiation force. It is important to estimate the level of heating generated at the stone/tissue interface for safety assessment. An in-vitro experiment is conducted to measure the temperature rise in a tissue-mimicking phantom with an embedded artificial stone and subjected to a focused beam from an imaging US array.

Focused Ultrasonic Propulsion of Kidney Stones.

Our research group is studying a noninvasive transcutaneous ultrasound device to expel small kidney stones or residual post-treatment stone fragments from the kidney. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasonic propulsion in a live porcine model. In domestic female swine (50-60 kg), human stones (calcium oxalate monohydrate) and metalized glass beads (2-8 mm) were ureteroscopically implanted.

Focused ultrasonic propulsion of kidney stones: review and update of preclinical technology.

A noninvasive tool to reposition kidney stones could have significant impact in the management of stone disease. Our research group has developed a noninvasive transcutaneous ultrasound device. A review and update of the current status of this technology is provided.