Disposable Ureteroscopes in Urology: Current State and Future Prospects

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Ureteroscopy is a primary surgical method for treating kidney stones.
• Reusable flexible ureteroscopes are prone to costly maintenance and lengthy sterilization processes.
• Single-use flexible ureteroscopes have emerged as an alternative to address these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of reusable versus single-use flexible ureteroscopes in stone treatment.
• To analyze the heterogeneity in performance and cost metrics between the two ureteroscope categories.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies comparing reusable and single-use flexible ureteroscopes.
• Analysis of performance measures, including stone-free rates and operative times.
• Evaluation of cost factors, encompassing initial purchase, maintenance, repair, and sterilization.

Main Results:

• Significant heterogeneity exists in reported performance and cost data for both reusable and single-use ureteroscopes.
• No definitive advantage was identified for either reusable or single-use flexible ureteroscopes in terms of overall success.
• Both modalities can achieve successful stone treatment outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The choice between reusable and single-use flexible ureteroscopes should be individualized.
• Institutional factors, including cost, available resources, and logistical capabilities, play a crucial role in decision-making.
• Further standardized research is needed to clarify the long-term benefits and drawbacks of each ureteroscope type.