Removing kidney stones has often been a lengthy, painful and uncomfortable procedure, but now a new technology could revolutionise treatment. Scientists have developed a non-invasive solution that uses so-called “acoustic vortex beams” to chop up stones – without pain or anaesthesia.
What is wrong with the current methods?
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) has typically been used to remove kidney stones. Although this avoids surgery, it is often painful and requires sedation or anaesthesia. In addition, the treatment requires special machines and a special room, and the shock waves may also damage healthy tissue.
This is where Lithovortex comes in
Researchers at the Technical University of Valencia and the Spanish National Research Council have come up with a revolutionary new technology. The “Lithovortex” is a portable device that emits vortex-like ultrasound waves – so-called acoustic vortex beams. These do not ‘strike’ the stone directly, but surround it and break it into small pieces in a swirling motion.
It is not only gentler, but also faster: it can be done in half the time of traditional shockwave treatment and requires only half the energy. And the biggest advantage is that it is almost painless, requires no anaesthesia and can even be used in outpatient care.
Compact and accurate
Lithovortex uses a robotic arm to guide targeted beams to the kidney stone, using piezoelectric transducers to generate ultrasound waves. The process is supported by an imaging system that allows precise treatment and minimal tissue damage.
What can we expect in the near future?
Although the technology is still in the prototype phase, researchers are planning animal trials as early as next year. This could be a significant step towards making kidney stone treatment faster, less painful and safer than ever before.
If the development is a success, many people affected will breathe a sigh of relief: an unpleasant medical procedure could be made much more humane – and with a revolutionary technological innovation.
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