Ureteroscopy for the treatment of urinary stones. Past, present and future

Ureteroscopy has been considered one of the most revolutionary techniques in modern urology for the treatment of urinary stones. The developments of new ureteroscopes, ancillary techniques or fragmentation devices have contributed to that evolution. To describe the evolution of imaging systems, auxiliary techniques and fragmentation methods for treatment of urinary stones from its beginnings to present time, with special emphasis on the different trends in the technique for the nearest future.

A bibliographic review is performed highlighting the development of technical details, and the impact on the results in terms of stone-free rate, and complications.

Ureteroscopy has evolved into a first-line technique for the treatment of upper urinary tract stones. Technological advances in both imaging equipment and on different ancillary techniques and fragmentation methods have enabled improved stone free rates and decreased morbidity of the technique. Improvements in imaging systems, auxiliary instruments and fragmentation methods allow the treatment of stones progressively more complex.