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Retrograde proximal rigid ureteroscopy and pyeloscopy in prepubertal children: safe and effective

O Alex Lesani1, Jeffrey S Palmer

  • 1Division of Pediatric Urology, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.

The Journal of Urology
|September 6, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Proximal rigid ureteroscopy is safe and effective for treating kidney stones and diagnosing hematuria in children under 12. This procedure offers advantages over flexible ureteroscopy for pediatric urological care.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Urology
  • Endourology

Background:

  • Rigid ureteroscopy is typically used for distal ureteral procedures in adults due to risks associated with proximal use.
  • The safety and efficacy of proximal rigid ureteroscopy in prepubertal children remain largely unestablished.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety and outcomes of proximal rigid ureteroscopy and pyeloscopy in prepubertal children.
  • To determine its utility in treating ureteral and renal pelvic calculi and evaluating hematuria.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective evaluation of prepubertal children (≤12 years) undergoing attempted rigid proximal ureteroscopy/pyeloscopy.
  • Indications included calculi treatment and hematuria evaluation.
  • Postoperative assessment included ultrasonography and radiography.

Main Results:

  • 24 procedures performed in children aged 3.4-12 years.
  • 83% (20/24) successful with rigid ureteroscopy; 17% (4/24) converted to flexible endoscopy.
  • All calculi patients were rendered stone-free; no complications reported.

Conclusions:

  • Proximal rigid ureteroscopy and pyeloscopy are safe and effective for pediatric urological procedures.
  • The technique is suitable for treating proximal ureteral/renal pelvic calculi and diagnostic evaluations.
  • Offers potential advantages over flexible ureteroscopy in this age group.
Abstract

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