In vitro cholesterol gallstone dissolution: comparison of methyl tert-butyl ether with three new ester solvents.

• DOI: 10.1148/radiology.180.1.2052721
• Publication Date: 2014-07-08T16:54:00Z
• Authors: C A Long; S K Teplick; M L Baker; J C Brandon
• Keywords: Methyl tert-butyl ether; Isopropyl; Propionates

The in vitro effectiveness of three new cholesterol gallstone solvents that have a potential for clinical use--ethyl propionate, isopropyl acetate, and n-propyl acetate--was compared with the well-known solvent methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE). Ten sets matched gallstones were initially weighed, imaged radiography computed tomography (CT), analyzed content. One stone from each set was incubated one four at 37 degrees C. Solvents changed 30-minute intervals. study stopped either when stones completely dissolved or end 7 hours. Any residual fragments reimaged, reanalyzed There no statistical differences between dissolution times MTBE those solvents. Ethyl propionate acetate appear to be as efficacious dissolving could attractive alternatives chemolysis.