The “Visual Dilator System”: Initial Experimental Evaluation of an Optical Tract Dilation Technique in Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Abstract

The study demonstrates feasibility of percutaneous access tract dilation using a Visual dilator system. This technique can provide visual confirmation of accuracy in dilation to improve safety and efficacy of the procedure.

Combined direct visual and imaging guided percutaneous renal access using on shot tract dilation, a case series of novel methods of tract dilatation

“…Revisions of this technique led to develop Amplatz dilator which could hold the ureteroscope inside and be used as a single shot dilator for percutaneous access. Feasibility of percutaneous access tract dilation especially in animal models is shown using a visual dilator system (10) guidance into the calyx (17). Semi-rigid ureteroscope was passed percutaneously during the puncture wound between the two guidewires, watching its secure progress using both the endoscopic and the fluoroscopic monitors, till the semi rigid ureteroscope go to the target calyx and the stone can be observed.…”

“…Revisions of this technique led to develop Amplatz dilator which could hold the ureteroscope inside and be used as a single shot dilator for percutaneous access. Feasibility of percutaneous access tract dilation especially in animal models is shown using a visual dilator system (10) and the human studies are required. Here we are presenting report of simulator experiences regarding visual dilation of the access tract as the first case series of combined direct visual and imaging guided percutaneous renal access using on shot tract dilation would confirm successful entry and a J tip wire was passed through the needle into the collecting system in challenging cases in which the entire calyx of entry is filled up with the stone or due to certain infundibular anatomy and the wire could not be passed into the pelvis (figure 1).…”