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Nonsurgical Treatment of Cholelithiasis: An Analysis of Clinical Opportunity

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  10 March 2009

Debra F. Weinstein
Affiliation:
Harvard Medical School
James A. Brink
Affiliation:
Harvard Medical School
James M. Richter
Affiliation:
Harvard Medical School

Abstract

This article examines the potential impact of recently developed nonsurgical treatments for gallstones on patient care and resource utilization. Using epidemiological and efficacy data from the literature and current patient selection criteria, the authors evaluate UDCA, extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy, and direct instillation of methyltertbutyl ether in terms of short-term clinical results, health policy, and economic implications.

Type
General Essays
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1990

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