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Probe-based Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy of the Urinary Tract: The Technique
Published on: January 10, 2013
Upper urinary tract biopsy: an old device for a new approach
G Carrafiello1, F Fontana, M Mangini
1Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Insubria University, Viale Borri 57, 21100, Varese, Italy. gcarraf@tin.it
La Radiologia Medica
|February 14, 2012
Summary
Flexible alligator forceps enable safe and accurate urological biopsies for diagnosing upper urinary tract lesions. This minimally invasive procedure shows high technical success and diagnostic accuracy with minimal complications.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Diagnostic Procedures
Background:
- Urothelial malignancy diagnosis often requires tissue sampling.
- Flexible instruments enhance access for endoscopic procedures in the urinary tract.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility, diagnostic accuracy, and safety of urological biopsy using flexible alligator forceps.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of this technique for suspected urothelial malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Retrograde biopsy was performed on 27 patients using 7-F biopsy forceps under mild sedation.
- Diagnosis was confirmed by cytohistological and surgical pathology findings.
- Benign lesions were monitored for at least 12 months.
Main Results:
- The technical success rate was 92.6%, with high diagnostic accuracy correlating with follow-up and surgical results.
- Success rates were lower for calyceal lesions (71.43%) compared to other upper urinary tract locations.
- Minor complications like asymptomatic hematuria and mild dysuria occurred in some patients, requiring no medication.
Conclusions:
- Urological biopsy with flexible alligator forceps is a safe and straightforward procedure.
- It offers a high diagnostic accuracy for upper urinary tract lesions, particularly urothelial malignancies.
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