Are new‐generation flexible ureteroscopes better than their predecessors?

Abstract

endoscopic tools were assessed. Specifications, purchase prices and repair costs were obtained from each manufacturer. The field of view and screen image size of each ureteroscope were also compared. RESULTSThe ACMI DUR-8 Elite and the Storz 11278AU had improvements of 79 ∞ and 144 ∞ , respectively, from their respective older models. Although the tip deflection of all ureteroscopes was compromised by inserting different endoscopic tools, these new instruments were less affected. With a 3 F basket inside the working channel, the ACMI DUR-8 Elite and the Storz 11278AU had only 0.7% and 2.8% loss of upward tip deflection, compared with their older models, at 9.6% and 5.0%, respectively. However, the flow rates of these new instruments were decreased. CONCLUSIONThe new flexible ureteroscopes have significantly better active tip deflection than previous models, both with and without endoscopic instrumentation inserted. However, improved flexibility is at the expense of decreased flow rates and higher purchase costs.

Ureteroscopy for Stone Treatment Using New 270° Semiflexible Endoscope: In Vitro, Ex Vivo, and Clinical Application

“…They maintain a high degree of flection even after introduction of instruments to secure access to the lower renal calix. [4][5][6] The aim of this study was to evaluate one of these new instruments in an in vitro, ex vivo, and clinical approach for durability and clinical use and to compare this ureteroscope with a standard flexible ureteroscope.…”

Working Tools in Flexible Ureterorenoscopy—Influence on Flow and Deflection: What Does Matter?

“…13 The Flex-X (Karl Storz, Culver City, CA) and the DUR-8 Elite (ACMI, Southborough, MA) represent the latest generation of flexible ureteroscopes, distinguished by the advantage of an increased maximum angle of deflection, maintained even after the introduction of stone management tools. 2,13,14 So, the loss of maximal active deflection is reduced during calculi extraction procedures. 2,14,15 We must also mention the fact that the new miniaturized nitinol stone extraction instruments and lithotripter probes decrease the loss of maximal deflection.…”

Flexible Ureterorenoscopic Management of Lower-Pole Stone: Does the Scope Make the Difference?

“…There is no available report, however, to demonstrate the superiority of a new flexible ureterorenoscope over another one. 2,3,5,8,10,14,15 Today, the ideal flexible ureterorenoscope is probably not available, but because of past improvements, in terms of lower-pole access and lower-pole stone management, the scope makes the difference.…”