Flexible ureterorenoscopy: Tips and tricks

Abstract

Flexible ureterorenoscopy is rapidly becoming a major part of the urologist's therapeutic armamentarium. As with any sophisticated new technique, the operator must have a detailed knowledge of the features of the equipment, and perfect control of the instruments used. Over the past 2 decades flexible ureterorenoscopes (F-URS) continue to evolve and improve significantly including F-URS design, deflection capabilities, irrigation flow, imaging equipment, and durability. Due to these recent developments, endourologists have expanded the clinical indications for flexible ureterorenoscopy. The purpose of this chapter is intended to thoroughly familiarize the prospective user with tips and tricks for flexible ureterorenoscopy, step by step, through the setup for the procedure and the handling of the F-URS for the management of calculi, tumors of the upper urinary tract, caliceal diverticuli, and strictures. © 2011 Springer-Verlag London Limited.