Annual Urolithiasis Update Course

A variety of minimally invasive approaches is available for the treatment of upper tract stones, and it is advisable that the general urologist be equipped to offer a full spectrum of treatment options. As such, one of the objectives of this course is to review the basic principles of endoscopy and shock wave lithotripsy, as well as to provide guidance for the selection of appropriate treatment modalities. New technologies and techniques to facilitate these procedures will be reviewed, and tips to recognize, treat and avoid complications will be presented. The role of imaging in the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with stones will be reviewed, along with instruction on radiation safety. However, surgical treatment of upper tract stones is only part of the comprehensive management of stone disease. This course will additionally review the pathophysiology of stone disease and provide a simplified diagnostic program and treatment algorithm for the prevention of recurrent stones. At the completion of this course, the practitioner should be able to provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for the patient with current or previous stones.