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Abstract

BackgroundLittle data exists on the use of disposable or single-use cystoscopy in the outpatient setting. This study aims to evaluate the specs of a single-use cystoscope and review available literature on disposable cystoscopy. Materials and MethodsThe Ambu a Scope 4 (Columbia, MD, USA) is a single-use system that underwent through benchtop evaluation as part of this study. The primary endpoint of the study included prospective benchtop evaluation to establish cystoscope specs, maneuverability, and deflection. Additionally, a PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and Embase search was performed using keywords 'cystoscopy AND disposable'; 'cystoscope AND disposable'; 'scope AND disposable'; 'single-use AND cystoscope'. ResultsBenchtop testing was performed on 10 single-use cystoscopes and revealed the Ambu a Scope 4 to have consistent deflection capability in all 10 scopes 210 up/120 down. Additionally, the visualization was rated on a scale of 1-5 based on user impression with all 10 scopes having similar visualization levels of 5.0. The average cord length was 389.9mm, average outer diameter of the scope was 16.2 French and average working channel diameter 6.6 French. Additionally, ten articles were reviewed and included in this study as part of the review on disposable cystoscopy. ConclusionThis paper has described disposable cystoscopy with particular attention to the Ambu a Scope 4. Disposable cystoscopes are becoming more and more available and could become particularly useful in the COVID-19 era. Disposable cystoscopes are a viable option for office-based cystoscopy. These disposable cystoscopes warrant future prospective studies to evaluate their cost, safety, clinician interpretation, patient satisfaction and clinical efficacy.