The new Olympus digital flexible ureteroscope (URF-V): Initial experience

Abstract

Objective: Flexible ureterorenoscopes (FURSs) are considered important additions to urology armamentarium. One of the technical drawbacks is the poor optic image provided by fiberoptic endoscope as well as the fragility of this conventional fiberoptic endoscope. This study aim is to evaluate practical performances and functional durability of the new Olympus digital flexible ureteroscope (ODF-URS) (URF-V) in a single center clinical setting. Materials and Methods: A number of 60 diagnostic and therapeutic procedures were performed over a period of 6 months in a single center (Tenon University Hospital), using a single ODF-URS (URF-V). This device provided a 275 maximal down-deflection (MDD) and 180 maximal up-deflection (MUD). Results: ODF-URS (URF-V) was used for a total time of 90 h and 30 min, with average time duration of 90.5 min per procedure. After 60 procedures, MDD decreased from 275 to 217, while the MUD decreased from 180 to 161. During six procedures (10%), URF-V failed to access inferior calyx due to a narrow lower calyx infundibulum. Conclusion: New ODF-URS (URF-V) is a reliable and durable device, with a good success rate and improved functional parameters. It is a superior device compared to predecessor generations of conventional fiberoptic endoscopes for the light source and the image quality; however, randomized comparative studies are necessary to evaluate performances and durability of this device.