Endoscopic Holmium:YAG laser-assisted lithotripsy: A Preliminary Report

PROBLEM/OBJECTIVE: Laser-assisted lithotripsy under sialendoscopy has the potential to overcome the limitations of traditional sialendoscopic lithotripsy when facing salivary stones. In this preliminary study, we report our experience with Holmium:YAG laser-assisted lithotripsy.

METHODS: Data from 11 Asian patients receiving sialendoscopies for laser-assisted lithotripsy performed in our department from August 2013 to June 2014 were recorded and reviewed.

RESULTS: A total of 18 procedures were performed in 11 Taiwanese patients with symptoms of obstructive sialoadenitis who were diagnosed with sialolithiasis. The sizes of the stones ranged between 3 mm and 13 mm. The endoscopic lithotomy procedures were performed in all 11 patients, and stone fragmentation with the Holmium:YAG laser was done successfully in all patients. All patients were followed for a minimum of 3 months, and there was no evidence of complications or recurrences over the follow up period.

CONCLUSION: The Holmium:YAG laser allowed successful fragmentation of stones in all 11 patients. Our experience with this procedure supports the use of Holmium:YAG laser-assisted lithotripsy through sialendoscopy in Asian patients.