In vitro comparison of simulated intrapelvic pressure in an artificial kidney model during retrograde intrarenal surgery among various single‐use ureteroscopes

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study compares intrapelvic pressure (IPP) during retrograde intrarenal surgery with various single‐use flexible ureteroscopes (f‐URS) in an artificial kidney model.MethodsWe created an artificial kidney model with a pressure sensor using a bladder evacuation device. The model was completely closed and the only backflow was on the side of the ureteroscope inside the ureteral access sheath (UAS). We tested five single‐use f‐URSs (LithoVue, Wiscope, PU3022A, PU3033A, and AXIS) with six different types of UAS (9.5/11.5–14/16 Fr). Using the automatic irrigation system, 30 s of irrigation was performed at various pressures (40–180 mmHg) and steady‐state IPP was recorded. IPP was compared between the five single‐use f‐URSs. IPP cutoff value was determined at 30 mmHg. The diameter of the endoscope tip and the curved and shaft parts were also measured and recorded.ResultsThe diameters of all parts were significantly different between single‐use f‐URSs. The maximum IPP tended to be higher in ureteroscopes with larger diameters of the proximal parts (curved part/shaft part). In LithoVue and Uscope PU3022A f‐URSs, the maximum IPP did not exceed 30 mmHg when UAS ≥12/14 Fr was used. In AXIS and Wiscope f‐URSs, it did not exceed the cutoff value when the UAS ≥11/13 Fr was used. In Uscope PU3033A f‐URS, it did not exceed 30 mmHg when the UAS ≥10/12 Fr was used.ConclusionsMaximum IPP tended to be higher in f‐URSs with larger diameters of the proximal part and the appropriate size of the UAS differed between various single‐use f‐URSs.