Ureteric stone extraction by a new double-balloon catheter: an experimental study

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Medical Device Design

Background:

• Ureteral calculi, particularly large ones (1-1.5 cm), pose significant clinical challenges.
• Current extraction methods like ureterolithotomy and stone baskets have limitations, including invasiveness and manipulation difficulties.
• Spontaneous migration of large ureteral stones is often unreliable, leading to prolonged patient discomfort and potential complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate an atraumatic double-ballooned catheter for endoscopic extraction of large ureteral calculi.
• To present a novel solution that minimizes the need for invasive surgical procedures.
• To improve the efficiency and safety of ureteral stone removal.

Main Methods:

• Design and development of an atraumatic double-ballooned catheter.
• Endoscopic application of the catheter for ureteral calculi extraction.
• Focus on calculi size ranging from 1 to 1.5 cm located at any ureteral level.

Main Results:

• The double-ballooned catheter successfully facilitated atraumatic endoscopic extraction of large ureteral calculi.
• The technique demonstrated a reduction in the necessity for ureterolithotomy.
• Elimination of complications associated with traditional stone basket manipulations was observed.

Conclusions:

• The atraumatic double-ballooned catheter is an effective tool for endoscopic removal of large ureteral stones.
• This device offers a less invasive alternative to ureterolithotomy and overcomes challenges of stone basket use.
• The method simplifies the management of ureteral calculi, reducing treatment time and potential morbidity.