[Ureterolithotomy versus retrograde ureteroscopy for lumbar ureteral stone. A cost analysis].

Ureterolithotomy is considered to be the last option for treating a lumbar ureteric stone. The authors reviewed two cases with lumbar ureteric stones treated in january 2003, one by ureterolithotomy and one by retrograde ureteroscopy regarding the costs for hospitalisation, investigations and medication. Among the certain clinical advantages for the patients, including a smaller rate of complications, ureteroscopy is considerably cheaper than open surgery. We consider that these costs criteria should be taken into consideration when the necessary equipment for-urological departments are set.