An in vitro study was performed to examine the application of a laser beam for the fragmentation of salivary stones. In accordance with the absorption and reflection spectra of sections of salivary stones, optimal fragmentation was achieved using a pulsed excimer laser with a pulse width of 60 ns and a wave-length of 308 or 351 nm. Further studies on particle size were conducted and a new "sialoendoscope" technique was developed. Twelve patients suffering from a sialolithiasis of the submandibular gland were treated. Under continuous endoscopic monitoring a laser-induced shock wave lithotripsy was performed. In 11 cases complete fragmentation and removal of the salivary stones was achieved. This approach to laser lithotripsy of salivary stones with endoscopic monitoring represents a novel method that permits treatment on an outpatient basis under local anaesthesia, with little inconvenience to the patient.