Single-use Digital Flexible Ureteroscope vs Nondisposable Fiber Optic vs Digital Ureteroscope

A Prospective Randomized Study Comparing Single-use Digital Flexible Ureteroscope, Nondisposable Fiber Optic and Digital Ureteroscope in Treatment of Upper Urinary Stone Less Than 2 cm

The aim of this trial is to compare the safety, efficacy and cost effectiveness of the three types of scopes.

With the advancement of technology, flexible ureteroscopy (f-URS) has become an attractive option for surgical management of kidney stones. However, the durability of flexible ureteroscope still remains a major concern. Due to the high cost and limited durability, the cost-benefit of non-disposable flexible ureteroscope continues to be the most important factor for initiating and maintaining fURS programs worldwide, especially in the developing countries. Nowadays, disposable digital flexible ureteroscopes are available, offering an improved image resolution, no need for sterilization and repair, and more economic.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Aged 18-70 years
2. American society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score 1 and 2
3. Renal or upper ureteral stone of diameter ≤ 2.0 cm

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Ureteral stricture, renal or ureteral deformity
2. Pregnancy
3. Patients with chronic kidney disease, CKD (serum creatine> 177 umol/L)