Numerous scope-related innovations have taken place in the field of endourology. The presented analytical review is aimed at studying the technical innovations of the single-use digital flexible ureteroscopes. In November 2024, a comprehensive search was done for information on latest disposable flexible digital ureteroscopes, as well as their various unique characteristics. A thorough examination was conducted for image qualities; sizes and channels; and deflection capabilities. Furthermore, supplementary features about the latest advances were assigned to a separate group including 'Unique' solutions. Using the last search query, various innovations in flexible ureteroscopy in general were also searched and sorted into appropriate groups.
Modern single-use flexible digital ureteroscopes are characterized by advanced technologies for transmitting light and images, miniaturization, as well as by a number of unique solutions that were previously characteristic only of semi-rigid or fiberoptic endoscopes. These include features such as integrated buttons for data recording, self-locking mechanism, separate ports, rotating shaft, direct-in-scope suction, pressure monitoring, enhanced tip control and customizable settings.
Since their introduction in urology, endoscopes have undergone many changes, as illustrated by the example of single-use flexible digital ureteroscopes. The imaging quality has improved, the dimensions of both the distal tip and shaft have decreased, with over 15 manufactures producing and distributing these scopes. A lot of new additional new features are likely to enhance the efficacy and safety of ureteroscopic procedures.
Current opinion in urology. 2025 Jan 08 [Epub ahead of print]
Ali Talyshinskii, Lazaros Tzelves, Eugenio Ventimiglia, Steffi Kar Kai Yuen, Vineet Gauhar, Oliver Traxer, Bhaskar Somani
Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan., Department of Urology, Sismanoglio Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece., Division of Experimental Oncology, Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy., Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, S.H. Ho Urology Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China., Division of Urology, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore., GRC N°20, Groupe de Recherche Clinique sur la Lithiase Urinaire, Sorbonne Université, Hôpital Tenon, Paris, France., Department of Urology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, UK.