ADVANCES IN FLEXIBLE URETEROSCOPY – INDICATIONS, TECHNIQUES, AND MANAGEMENT OF COMPLICATIONS
Authors:
E. J. Moskowitz; B. Alexander; M. Grasso
Published in:
Urol List 2014; 12(4): 13-20
Overview
Advancements in instrumentation over the past 30 years have improved the management of upper urinary tract disorders, emphasizing minimally invasive strategies to treat a host of clinical presentations. Major developments in materials, imaging technologies, and deliverable energy sources have led to an evolution in treatments highlighted by improved outcomes, shortened hospitalizations, while minimizing complications. Upper urinary tract calculi that were once treated with “blind basketing” (fluoroscopically guided basketing) or open ureterolithotomy are now routinely addressed ureteroscopically, with efficient direct stone fragmentation facilitated by powerful laser lithotrites. Similar techniques are routinely employed for upper urinary tract urothelial malignancies and stricture disease. Endoscope and accessory instrument miniaturization combined with enhanced active deflectability (i.e. steerability) have improved access to upper tract lesions and minimized ureteral trauma associated with the most complex treatments. The improvements combined with refined surgical technique have led to expanded indications that include endoscopic lithotripsy for the large intra‑ renal stones, as well as strategies beyond diagnosis to the definitive treatment of upper tract urothelial tumors. This review will define the mechanical, optical, and material advances, as well as the corresponding progressive strategies employed with the actively deflectable, flexible ureteroscope.
Key words:
ureteropyeloscopic treatment, ureteroscopic laser lithotripsy, upper tract urothelial lesions, flexible ureteroscopy, diagnostic ureteropyeloscopy
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