Performance and Durability of Leading Flexible Ureteroscopes

Purpose: The role of ureteronephroscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of upper-tract disease has expanded dramatically in recent years with technological advances. In a study involving 14 urologists, we measured the practical performance and durability of the most common commercially available flexible ureteroscopes. Patients and Methods: Six commercially available flexible ureteroscopes (Circon-ACMI DUR 8, ACMI DUR 8-Elite, Storz 11274AA, Wolf 7325.172-7.5Fr, Wolf 7330.072-9.0 Fr, Olympus URF-P3) were used consecutively 102 times over a 7-month period. Comparative data, including preoperative and postoperative maximal deflection angles and luminosity, were accumulated, as well as a survey of insertion methods, irrigation methods, instruments used in the working channel, visibility, maneuverability, and overall satisfaction. Maintenance records were analyzed to evaluate the need or reason for repair. Results: Overall satisfaction, visibility, luminosity, and maneuverability were similar for all instrumen...