(lith'ŏ-trip‵tĕr )

[ litho- + Gr. trip(sis), rubbing]

A device for breaking up kidney stones. SYN: lithotrite.

electrohydraulic l.An intracorporeal lithotripter. It is a fluid-filled device that uses electrically generated shock waves next to stones to fragment them.

laser l.A lithotripter that fragments stones by applying photothermal energy. An endoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder, ureter, or renal pelvis and is placed alongside the stone. Application of a laser causes the stone to break apart.

percutaneous ultrasonic l.A lithotripter that uses ultrasound to break up kidney stones and gallstones. The sound waves are applied to the outside of the body and penetrate to the calculi.

SEE: extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy.