Point of technique: reducing wrong-side errors for endourology procedures

To describe a simple novel technique for reducing the likelihood of wrong-side surgery in endourology.

A radiopaque adhesive SKINTACT ECG electrode is placed in the corresponding groin on the side of the intended procedure and provides a visual aid to the surgeon on the fluoroscopy image to ensure the correct side is being performed.

The electrode is placed in the groin at the end of the surgical checklist in view of and in collaboration with the whole surgical team before commencing the procedure. The electrodes are widely available, nonintrusive, and easily removed.

Wrong-side surgery unfortunately still does occur despite universal precautionary measures put in place to prevent this. Certain surgical specialties are more prone to wrong-side surgery, such as orthopedics and urology. Such an adverse event can have a significant and negative impact both on the surgeon and the patient. It is almost always due to human error and any measure to prevent this should be welcomed. The method described provides an additional safeguard against this occurring.