The use of ureteroscopy to treat urolithiasis has been increasing in the ambulatory setting, according to a UroToday.com report.
Here are five things to know:
1. The report seeks to analyze trends of the use of URS and SWL in ASCs in California using a state database over a five-year period.
2. URS use increased significantly from 6,978 cases, or 39 percent in 2005 to 9,259 cases, or 49 percent in 2010.
3. SWL use decreased from 10,853 cases, or 61 percent in 2005 to 9,674 cases, or 51 percent in 2010.
4. The results "underpin" a major shift in the way urolithiasis is treated in California, as well as trends across North America, according to the report.
5. Researchers note future studies guiding the management of upper urinary stones will require geographically broader datasets.