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Ureteral dilation using a tapered dilator: a cost-effective approach
F Gaylis1, M Bastuba, M Bidair
1San Diego Urology Center, Medical Associates, La Mesa, California 91942, USA. sdurology@aol.com
Journal of Endourology
|August 25, 2000
Summary
The new 6/12 AQ tapered dilator offers a safe, effective, and cost-saving method for ureteral dilation before ureteroscopy. This device provides an inexpensive alternative to traditional dilation techniques.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Devices
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- A novel 6/12 AQ hydrophilically coated tapered dilator has been developed.
- This device is intended for ureteral dilation preceding ureteroscopy procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of the 6/12 AQ tapered dilator.
- To evaluate the safety and cost-effectiveness of this new ureteral access device.
Main Methods:
- The 6/12 AQ tapered dilator was utilized in 80 consecutive patients.
- Patients underwent ureteroscopy for diagnostic, stone treatment, or stricture dilation purposes.
Main Results:
- Successful ureteral orifice and intramural ureter dilation was achieved in all 80 cases.
- One complication involved an extruded embedded stone.
- The 6/12 AQ dilator procedure cost is 20% of balloon dilation, saving approximately $764 per procedure.
Conclusions:
- Ureteral dilation using the 6/12 AQ tapered dilator is safe and effective.
- This device presents an inexpensive alternative to conventional dilation methods.