Single-use flexible ureteroscopes: practice patterns, attitudes, and preferences for next-generation concepts

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Devices
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Single-use flexible ureteroscopes (su-fURS) offer an alternative to reusable models for upper urinary tract stone management.
• Limited data exists on urologist adoption patterns and perspectives regarding su-fURS technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current practice patterns and attitudes of endourologists towards single-use flexible ureteroscopes.
• To identify barriers to su-fURS adoption and preferences for future device development.

Main Methods:

• A global online survey was distributed to Endourology Society members in January 2021.
• The questionnaire gathered data on su-fURS usage, reasons for adoption or non-adoption, and desired features for next-generation models.

Main Results:

• Only 2.4% of respondents used su-fURS for all procedures; 26.0% had never used them.
• Cost (59.1%) and environmental impact (12.5%) were primary barriers to adoption.
• Essential future developments include suction capability (94.3%) and smaller outer shaft size (19.4%).

Conclusions:

• Despite availability, su-fURS adoption remains low among high-volume flexible ureteroscopy users.
• Cost and environmental concerns significantly hinder widespread use.
• Enhanced suction functionality is the most critical feature for future su-fURS development.