Microperc with Self-Assembled Fr 4.85 Visual Needle and Ureteral Access Sheath

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Nephrolithiasis Treatment

Background:

• Micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy (microperc) is a minimally invasive procedure for kidney stones.
• While effective, modifications to microperc techniques can enhance outcomes.
• This study explores a novel self-assembled visual needle and ureteral access sheath (UAS) for microperc.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a self-assembled visual needle and UAS for microperc procedures.
• To assess the stone-free rates and clinical outcomes associated with this modified technique.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 30 patients undergoing microperc with a self-assembled 4.8 Fr visual needle and UAS.
• Patients were positioned in an oblique lithotomy position.
• Data collected included operative time, pain scores, hemoglobin decrease, hospital stay, and stone-free rates.

Main Results:

• 28 cases were analyzed after exclusions.
• The mean operative time was 47 minutes, with low postoperative pain (VAS 2.5) and minimal hemoglobin decrease (6.4 g/L).
• Stone-free rates were 42.9% at day 1, 92.9% at month 1, and 100% at month 3. Complications were minor and resolved with treatment.

Conclusions:

• The self-assembled visual needle and UAS is an effective instrument for microperc.
• The use of a UAS in conjunction with microperc may improve operative outcomes and achieve high stone-free rates.