Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is safe and effective in patients with high comorbidity burden

ABSTRACT Introduction We assessed the efficacy and safety of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in patients with high comorbidity burden. Materials and methods Data from patients treated with HoLEP at our academic referral center from March 2017 to January 2021 were prospectively collected. Patients were divided according to their CCI (Charlson Comorbidity Index). Perioperative surgical data and 3-month functional outcomes were collected. Results Out of 305 patients included, 107 (35.1%) and 198 (64.9%) were classified as CCI ≥ 3 and < 3, respectively. The groups were comparable in terms of baseline prostate size, symptoms severity, post-void residue and Qmax. The amount of energy delivered during HoLEP (141.3 vs. 118.0 KJ, p=0.01) and lasing time (38 vs 31 minutes, p=0.01) were significantly higher in patients with CCI ≥ 3. However, median enucleation, morcellation and overall surgical time were comparable between the two groups (all p>0.05). Intraoperative complications rate (9.3% vs. 9.5%, p=0.77), median time to catheter removal and hospital stay were comparable between the two cohorts. Similarly, early (30 days) and delayed (>30 days) surgical complications rates were not significantly different between the two groups. At 3-month follow up, functional outcomes using validated questionnaires did not differ between the two groups (all p>0.05). Conclusions HoLEP represents a safe and effective treatment option for BPH also in patients with high comorbidity burden.

Translocación de dispositivo intrauterino de cobre a vejiga y litiasis vesical secundaria ­ Reporte de caso clínico / Translocation of Copper Intrauterine Device to Bladder and Secondary Vesical Lithiasis ­ Clinical Case Report

El dispositivo intrauterino (DIU), ha sido utilizado en nuestro medio y en el mundo durante muchos años como método anticonceptivo. Una complicación infrecuente posterior a su inserción es la migración fuera del útero. La localización vesical y complicación con la vesicolitiasis, forman parte de las complicaciones asociadas a la migración. Presentamos un caso de migración de un DIU a la vejiga asociado a la formación de un cálculo entorno a ese dispositivo. Se describe el cuadro clínico, los estudios realizados y el tratamient

The intrauterine device (IUD) has been used in our environment and in the world for many years as a contraceptive method. One of the complications is the migration outside the uterus, being the bladder location unusual and much more the secondary bladder stone. We present a case of migration of an IUD to the bladder associated with the formation of a calculus around this foreign body. The clinical record, study and treatment are described.

Holmium Laser for Endoscopic Treatment of Benign Tracheal Stenosis

Abstract Introduction Laryngotracheal stenosis is a difficult problem with varied etiology and various treatment options. The holmium laser represents another tool for the treatment of benign tracheal stenosis. Objectives To determine the utility of holmium laser treatment for benign tracheal stenosis with regards to safety and efficacy. Methods This was a retrospective case study examining patients with benign tracheal stenosis from 1998-2016 who underwent holmium laser treatment. Determining the safety of this procedure was the primary goal, and complications were monitored as a surrogate of safety. Results A total of 123 patients who underwent holmium laser treatment for benign tracheal stenosis were identified. In total, 123 patients underwent 476 procedures, with follow-up ranging from 1 month to 14 years. No intraoperative or post-operative complications were identified as a direct result of the use of this particular laser. Conclusions The holmium laser is an effective and safe laser to use for tracheal stenosis treatment. It is a contact laser with a short acting distance, which reduces the risk of injury to distal airway structures. Given the favorable experience reported here, the holmium laser should be considered when tracheal surgery is attempted.

Experiencia en el manejo de litiasis renal y ureteral con ureteroscopio flexible y láser holmium en un hospital público de Bogotá: estudio retrospectivo / Experience in the management of renal and ureteral calculi with holmium laser and flexible ureteroscope in a public hospital in Bogotá: A retrospective study

Objetivos Discutir y evaluar la tasa libre de cálculos y las complicaciones de la ureterolitotomía endoscópica flexible con láser holmium en el manejo de cálculos ureterales y renales basada en la experiencia de un hospital público de iii nivel en Bogotá. Material and Métodos Estudio retrospectivo en una muestra poblacional en pacientes con litiasis renal y ureteral, tratados con ureteroscopio flexible y láser holmium, evaluándose la tasa libre de cálculos, complicaciones postoperatorias y otros parámetros. El seguimiento se realizó con radiografía de abdomen y urotac al mes del postoperatorio, la tasa libre de cálculos se definió como ausencia de cálculos residuales < 4 mm en la imagen control. Resultados Se realizaron 44 procedimientos en 43 pacientes con edad promedio de 45 años, tiempo quirúrgico promedio 91,2 min, la tasa libre de cálculos fue del 84% (37/44) en un solo evento quirúrgico; solo un paciente requirió una segunda intervención con posterior tasa libre de cálculos del 100%. La tasa libre de cálculos ureterales fue del 92% (24/26), cáliz superior 100% (2/2), cáliz medio 100%(1/1), cáliz inferior 78% (7/9) y calicial múltiple 50% (3/6). El porcentaje de complicaciones fue del 6,8%. Conclusiones La ureterolitotomía endoscópica flexible con láser es un procedimiento efectivo y seguro en el manejo de litiasis renal y ureteral con baja incidencia de complicaciones. Observamos que en la mayoría de los pacientes con fragmentos residuales significativos estos se encontraban en cáliz inferior o se trataba de cálculos en múltiples cálices, explicándose por el difícil acceso al cáliz inferior y la carga litiásica.

Objective To discuss and review the stone free rate and complications of using flexible ureteroscopy and holmium laser lithotripsy for treating patients with kidney and ureteral stones, based on the experience in a level III public hospital in Bogotá. Materials and Methods A retrospective review was conducted on patients with renal and ureteral stones treated with flexible ureteroscopy and holmium laser, by analysing the stone-free rate and postoperative complications. X-rays or computed tomography was performed at 30 days post-operation to assess the effects of surgery, and the stone-free rate was defined as absence of residual stones < 4 mm on follow-up imaging. Results A total of 44 procedures were performed on 43 patients with a mean age of 45 years. The mean operating time was 91.2 minutes, and the stone-free rate in a single surgical event was 84% (37/44). Only one patient required a second intervention, with a subsequent stone-free rate of 100%. The ureteral stone-free rate was 92% (24/26), with upper calyx 100% (2/2), middle calyx 100% (1/1), 78% lower calyx (7/9), and multiple calyceal 50% (3/6). The complication rate was 6.8%. Conclusions Flexible ureteroscopy and holmium laser lithotripsy is an effective and safe procedure in the management of renal and ureteral stones, with a low incidence of postoperative complications. It was noted that most patients with significant residual fragments, they were in lower calyx or had multiple stones. This was explained by the difficult access to the lower calyx and stone burden.

Manejo ureteroscópico y litotripcia láser en la ureterolitiasis / Ureteroscopic treatment of urolithiasis with the holmium laser

Introducción: El desarrollo de la ureteroscopia semirigida y flexible ha permitido un accesso más fácil a los cálculos del tracto urinario. Analizamos el uso de la ureteroscopía semirigida para el manejo de la urolitiasis en una institución de Santiago.Material y métodos. La ureteroscopia semirigida fue realizada a 139 pacientes entre Febrero 2009 y Marzo 2011. Ubicación de litiasis, detalles de tratamiento, resultado postoperatorio y complicaciones fueron registradas. Los procedimientos fueron realizados bajo anestesia regional y general. Para la fragmentación de la litiasis se utilizó el láser HO: YAG holmium yag.Los resultados fueron analizados en forma retrospectiva.Resultados. 139 pacientes fueron sometidos a tratamiento ureteroscópico para litiasis ureterales. Fueron sometidos 33 pacientes a ureteroscopia proximal y 106 pacientes a ureteroscopia distal, respectivamente. La tasa libre de cálculo global fue de 86.33 por ciento, con una tasa de éxito proximal y distal de 71.88 por ciento y 94.33 por ciento respectivamente.Conclusión. El tratamiento ureteroscópico de las litiasis ureterales resulta en una tasa libre de cálculo elevada con baja morbilidad.(AU)

Introduction: The development of semi-rigid and flexible ureteroscopes has permitted an easier Access to calculi through the urinary tract. We analyzed the use of semi-rigid ureteroscopy for the managment of urolithiasis at a single institution.Intervention: Ureteroscopy was performed according to study protocol and current local clinical practice.Material y Methods. Ureteroscopic Stone treatment was attempted in 139 patients between february 2009 and march 2011. Stone location, treatment details, postoperative outcome and complication were recorded. The procedures were performed under regional and general anesthesia. For Stone fragmentation we used the HO: YAG, holmium yag laser under direct vision of calculi. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative data were retrospectively analyzed.Results. 139 patients receive ureteroscopic tretament for ureteral stones. 33 and 106 patients underwent proximal and distal ureteroscopy, respectively. Global stone free rate was 86.33 pertcent, with a proximal and distal success rate of 71.88 pertcent and 94.33 pertrcent.Conclusion. Ureteroscopic treatment of ureteral stones resulted in elevated stone­free rates and low morbidity.(AU)

Infección genital masculina por virus de papiloma humano / Male genital infection by human papiloma virus

El virus del papiloma humano (VPH) es una de las enfermedades de transmisión sexual más comunes. Puede afectar tanto el aparato genital masculino y femenino, como también el área perianal, ano, y diversas áreas de cabeza y cuello y otorrinolaringológicas, ya sea como lesiones benignas o como promotor de lesiones malignas. Las lesiones benignas por VPH en genitales masculinos se caracterizan fundamentalmente por la aparición de lesiones verrugosas, aunque también puede manifestarse mediante lesiones planas atípicas. En algunos casos hay ausencia de lesiones macroscópicamente visibles que pueden hacerse evidentes con la prueba de ácido acético. La biopsia de la lesión, su evaluación anatomopatológica y, sobre todo, la determinación de la existencia y el tipo de virus involucrado mediante PCR (reacción en cadena de la polimerasa) permiten confirmar el diagnóstico. En algunas ocasiones es necesario realizar una cistoscopia para diagnosticar lesiones intrauretrales y vesicales. Los tratamientos propuestos son muy variados y de eficacia dispar, desde las topicaciones y la electrocirugía o la criocirugía, hasta el empleo de la tecnología láser. La prevención con el uso de protección durante el acto sexual así como la educación sexual son fundamentales. En los últimos 10 años se ha implementado el uso de la vacuna para el VPH en niñas con el fin de disminuir la incidencia de lesiones de alto grado y de cáncer de cuello uterino, pero su indicación en varones es menos clara y aún no ha sido consensuada. (AU)

Human papiloma virus (HPV) is one of the most common sexual transmitted diseases. It can affect the male genitalia, as well as the perianal and anal regions and multiple areas of the head and neck and otorhinolaryngological structures, as benign lesiones or as a promoter of malignant lesions. Benign male genitalia lesions are characterized mainly by verrucous lesions, although flat atypical lesions can be found, as well as the abscence of macroscopic visible lesions that in some cases can become evident using the acetic acid test. Lesion biopsy, its histological evaluation, and the determination of the existence and type of virus using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) can confirm the diagnosis. In some cases is necessary to do a cistoscopy to diagnose intraurethral and vesical lesions. Proposed treatments are varied and with a wide range of efficacy, from topications to electro or cryosurgery, and the use of laser technology. Sexual education and the use of sexual protection are essential in prevention. In the last 10 years the use of VPH vaccine in girls was widely spread, in order to decrease the incidence of high grade lesions and cervix cancer. Its indication in male patients is less clear and not yet consented among specialists. (AU)

Tratamiento de la litiasis renal con nefrolitotomía percutánea con láser en la población pediátrica: experiencia inicial / Treatment of kidney stones using percutaneous nephrolithotomy with laser in a pediatric population: an initial experience

Reportar nuestra experiencia inicial de nefrolitotomía percutánea (NLPC) con láser Holmium para el tratamiento de litiasis renal en la población pediátrica. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo descriptivo de pacientes menores de 16 años con litiasis renal que fueron tratados con nefrolitotomía percutánea en el servicio de Urología del Hospital Garrahan en el período comprendido entre agosto de 2013 y marzo de 2015. Resultados: 19 procedimientos en 16 pacientes con un número de 17 unidades renales (UR) con una edad media de 7 años y un rango de 2 a 15 (Tabla 2). Los tipos de litiasis tratadas fueron: litiasis coraliforme en 6 pacientes (37,5%), coraliforme incompleto en 3 pacientes (18,7%), litiasis piélicas mayores de 2 cm en 4 pacientes (25%), litiasis piélicas menores de 2 cm en 2 pacientes (12,5%) y múltiples mayores de 2 cm en 1 paciente (6,25%). Se realizó acceso único en 15 pacientes, en sólo uno se configuró un segundo acceso y se reingresó o se realizó cirugía en dos tiempos en 3 pacientes (todos con litiasis coraliforme completa). La tasa de litiasis residual total fue del 21,1 %, todas ellas en litiasis coraliformes completas. Las complicaciones se observaron en 3 casos (18,7%) y fueron clasificadas como tipo III B en dos pacientes y del tipo I en uno. En los dos primeros se requirió conversión a vía abierta y en el último paciente solo se dejó colocada nefrostomía por 7 días. La internación promedio fue de 2,8 días con un rango de 1 a 15 días. El seguimiento medio fue de 7 meses con un rango de 4 a 13 meses. Conclusiones: La nefrolitotomía percutánea en pediatría es un método con baja morbilidad, que requiere una curva de aprendizaje prolongada y es determinante contar con todo el material necesario para "liberar" al riñón de litiasis urinaria (AU)

The aim of the study was to report our initial experience with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) with holmium laser for the treatment of kidney stones in children. Material and methods: A descriptive retrospective analysis was conducted in patients younger than 16 years with kidney stones treated with PCNL at the department of urology of Garrahan Hospital between August 2013 and March 2015. Results: 19 procedures were performed in 16 patients with a number of 17 renal units (RU) and a mean age of 7 years, ranging from 2 to 15 years (Table 2). Types of kidney stones were: Staghorn kidney stones 6 patients (37.5%), partial staghorn kidney stones in 3 patients (18.7%), renal pelvis kidney stones larger than 2 cm in 4 patients (25%), renal pelvis kidney stones smaller than 2 cm in 2 patients (12.5%), and multiple kidney stones larger than 2 cm in 1 patient (6.25%). A single tract was performed in 15 patients, a second tract in only one, and re-entry or a two-step surgery was performed in 3 patients (all with complete staghorn kidney stones). The rate of residual stones was 21.1 %, all of them were complete staghorn stones. Complications occurred in 3 cases (18.7%) and were classified as type III B in two patients and type I in one. In the first two patients conversion to open surgery was necessary and in the remaining patient the nephrostomy was left in place for 7 days. Mean hospital stay was 2.8 days with a range of 1 to 15 days. Mean follow-up time was 7 months with a range of 4 to 13 months. Conclusions: In children PCNL is a procedure with low morbidity requiring a long learning curve. Availability of all the necessary materials is essential to be able to "release" the kidney from the stones (AU)

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: surgical, functional, and quality-of-life outcomes upon extended follow-up

ABSTRACT Objectives: To evaluate the long-term surgical, functional, and quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes after Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed recorded data on patients who underwent HoLEP between June 2002 and February 2005. Ninety-six patients were enrolled. Demographic, perioperative, and postoperative data were recorded. On follow-up, International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSSs), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, QoL scores, peak uroflowmetric data (Qmax values), and post-voiding residual urine volumes (PVR volumes), were recorded. Complications were scored using the Clavien system. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean follow-up time was 41.8±34.6 months and the mean patient age 73.2±8.7 years. The mean prostate volume was 74.6±34.3mL. Significant improvements in Qmax values, QoL, and IPSSs and decreases in PSA levels and PVR volumes were noted during follow-up (all p values=0.001). The most common complication was a requirement for re-catheterisation because of urinary retention. Two patients had concomitant bladder tumours that did not invade the muscles. Eight patients (8.3%) required re-operations; three had residual adenoma, three urethral strictures, and two residual prostate tissue in the bladder. Stress incontinence occurred in one patient (1%). All complications were of Clavien Grade 3a. We noted no Clavien 3b, 4, or 5 complications during follow-up. Conclusions: HoLEP improved IPSSs, Qmax values, PVR volumes, and QoL and was associated with a low complication rate, during extended follow-up. Thus, HoLEP can be a viable option to transurethral resection of the prostate.

Impact of retrograde flexible ureteroscopy and intracorporeal lithotripsy on kidney functional outcomes

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate renal function and to identify factors associated with renal function deterioration after retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for kidney stones. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with renal stones treated by RIRS between January 2010 and June 2013 at a single institute. We used the National Kidney Foundation classification of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to classify Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) in 5 groups. The baseline creatinine level was systematically pre-operatively and post-operatively evaluated. All patients had a creatinine blood measurement in June 2013. A change toward a less or a more favorable GFR group following RIRS was considered significant. Results: We included 163 patients. There were 86 males (52.8%) and 77 females (47.3%) with a mean age of 52.8±17 years. After a mean follow-up of 15.5±11.5 months, median GFR was not significantly changed from 84.3±26.2 to 84.9±24.5 mL/min (p=0.675). Significant renal function deterioration occurred in 8 cases (4.9%) and significant renal function amelioration occurred in 23 cases (14.1%). In univariate analysis, multiple procedures (p=0.023; HR: 5.4) and preoperative CKD (p=0.011; HR: 6.8) were associated with decreased renal function. In multivariate analysis these factors did not remain as predictive factors. Conclusion: Stone management with RIRS seems to have favorable outcomes on kidney function; however, special attention should be given to patients with multiple procedures and preoperative chronic kidney disease.

Fulguración con láser de la recidiva de tumores vesicales superficiales bajo anestesia local: diseño de procesos / Laser fulguration of superficial bladder tumor recurrence under local anesthesia. design process

Introduction: The process design is one of the most interesting tools to ensure the quality of health care before the start of an activity. Although the gold standard treatment of superficial bladder tumors remains transurethral resection (TUR), the onset of laser energy source with better endourological systems allows us to adopt alternative therapies. The aim of this pilot study is to describe the design and protocol in 37 patients with a novel process consisting of outpatient treatment under local anesthesia of bladder tumors with holmium laser. Material and Methods: Pilot study includes 37 patients between January 2012 and December 2013, for the development of a process of holmium laser bladder fulguration without anesthetic infiltration in outpatient study. It analyzes and studies the procedure tolerance, development of immediate complications, visual analog scale (VAS) of pain, patient satisfaction, hospital stays avoided, problems during the application process and development. Results: The mean age of the patients was 69.2 +/- 10.3 years, 100 percent of patients prefer this procedure instead conventional transurethral resection and VAS rating presenting ≤ 3. There were no important complications. Only one patient was admitted at hospital due to hematuria resolved without surgical treatment. Conclusions: The development and implementation of fulguration of superficial papillary bladder tumors with holmium laser process is simple, well tolerated, ambulatory and without complications, with no need of hospital stay.

Introducción: El diseño de procesos es una de las herramientas de mayor interés para asegurar la calidad de la asistencia sanitaria antes del comienzo de una determinada actividad. Aunque el gold standard del tratamiento de los tumores vesicales superficiales sigue siendo la resección transuretral (RTU), la aparición de la fuente de energía láser con mejores medios endourológicos nos permite adoptar otras alternativas terapéuticas. El objetivo de este estudio piloto es describir el diseño y protocolo en 37 pacientes de un proceso novedoso consistente en el tratamiento en régimen ambulatorio y bajo anestesia local intravesical de los tumores de vejiga con láser de holmium. Material y Métodos: Estudio piloto que incluye 37 pacientes entre enero de 2012 y diciembre de 2013, para la elaboración de un proceso de fulguración vesical con láser de holmium sin infiltración anestésica en régimen ambulatorio. Se analiza y estudia tolerancia al procedimiento, desarrollo de complicaciones inmediatas, escala visual analógica (EVA) del dolor, satisfacción del paciente, estancias hospitalarias evitadas, problemas durante la aplicación del proceso y desarrollo del mismo. Resultados: La edad media de los pacientes fue 69,2 +/- 10,3 años, presentando puntuación EVA ≤ 3. No existieron complicaciones importantes. Hubo un ingreso por hematuria tardía que se resolvió de forma conservadora. Conclusiones: La elaboración y aplicación del proceso de fulguración de tumores vesicales papilares superficiales con láser holmium es una técnica sencilla, con buena tolerancia, ambulatoria y sin complicaciones de interés, con eliminación de estancias hospitalarias.

Evaluation of hela cell lineage response to β radiation from Holmium-166 embedded in ceramic seeds

This work studied the effects of β radiation of Ho-166 embedded in ceramic seeds on HeLa cells. Methodology consisted in the production of ceramic seeds with holmium-165 by sol-gel route. Chemical and physical characterizations of the seeds were performed. Subsequently, nuclear characterization was performed by gamma spectrometry. Experimental and theoretical activities were defined and initial dose rate were evaluated by MIRD (Medical Internal Radiation Dose Committee) methodology. The seeds were placed in confluent culture flasks and remained for six radionuclide half-lives. Biological results were represented by a clean 6 mm diameter area around the seed where the tumour cells were killed. The initial dose rate was 15.5 Gy. h-1. The maximum absorbed dose was 591.3 Gy. The features of the Ho-166 seeds suggested that such ceramic seeds were suitable for high dose rate brachytherapy.

Uso del laser holmium para el manejo de coledocolitiasis compleja en la exploración laparoscópica de las vías biliares / Use of holmium laser for management of complex choledocholithiasis in laparoscopic bile duct exploration

Presentar la primera experiencia nacional con el uso de Holmium Láser en la exploración laparoscópica de las vías biliares para el manejo de cálculos en la vía biliar intrahepática, llevado a acabo en el Hospital Universitario de Caracas, en el Servicio de Cirugía III. Se presenta caso de paciente femenina de 35 años de edad, con clínica de síndrome ictérico obstrutivo, a quien se le realizó colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica evidenciando cálculos impactados en la vía biliar izquierda, sin lograr la extracción de los mismos, motivo por el cual se decide realizar exploración laparoscópica la vía biliar con el uso del Holmium laser para la litotripsia. Se realizó exploración laparoscópica de las vías biliares y litotripsia con Holmium Laser, logrando la fragmentación y extracción de los mismos. La paciente evolucionó de forma satisfactoria, sin complicaciones, siendo egresada al tercer día de postoperatorio. Cuando la colangiopancreatografía retrograda endoscopica resulta ineficiente en el caso de cálculos intrahepáticos o cálculos grandes impactados en la vía biliar, el siguiente paso es la exploración qurúrgica. La exploración laparoscópica con el uso de Holmium Laser permite la listotripsia a través de ablación fototérmica sin riesgo de lesionar estructuras adyacentes, obteniendo resultados favorables y aumentando la tasa de efectividad del procedimiento cuando se trata de coledocolitiasis compleja.

Present the first national experience with the use of Holmium Laser in laparoscopic common bile duct exploration for the management of intrahepatic bile duct stones, performed in Surgery Department III at the Hospital Universitario de Caracas. A 35 years old female with obstructive jaundice syndrome who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography showing impacted stones in the left hepatic duct. Being impossible to clear the stones, a laparoscopic common bile duct exploration with the Holmium Laser was performed. A laparoscopic common bile duct exploration and Holmium Laser was performed, achieving stone clearance. The patient was dischanged with no complication on the third postoperatory day. When endoscopic retrogarade cholangiopancreatography is inefficient in the case of intrahepatic stones or large stones impacted in the common bile, the mext step is surgical exploration. Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration with the Holmium Laser result in photothermal of stones without injury to surrounding structures, obtaining favorable results and increasing the rate of effectiveness of the procedure in the management of complex billary tract caluli.

Outcomes of flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy with holmium laser for upper urinary tract calculi

OBJECTIVE: To assess the perioperative and financial outcomes of flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy with holmium laser for upper tract calculi in 44 patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between February 2004 and September 2006, 44 patients treated for upper tract stone with flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy were evaluated. Renal stones were associated with collecting system obstruction in 15 (34 percent) patients, failed extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (SWL) occurred in 14 (32 percent) patients, unilateral multiple stones in 18 (41 percent) patients, and multiple bilateral stones in 3 (7 percent). In 29 (66 percent) patients, the stone was located in the inferior calyx. Perioperative and financial outcomes were also evaluated. RESULTS: 50 procedures were performed in 44 patients. The mean stone burden on preoperative CT scan was 11.5 ± 5.8 mm. The mean operative time was 61.3 ± 29.4 min. The stone free rate was 93.1 percent after one procedure and 97.7 percent after a second procedure, with overall complication rate of 8 percent. Therapeutic success occurred in 92 percent and 93 percent of patients with lower pole stones and SWL failure, respectively. Treatment failure of a single session was associated with presence of a stone size larger than 15 mm (p = 0.007), but not associated with inferior calyx location (p = 0.09). Surgical disposables were responsible for 78 percent of overall costs. CONCLUSION: Flexible ureteroscopy using holmium laser is a safe and effective option for the treatment of upper urinary tract calculi. In addition, it can be considered an attractive option as salvage therapy after SWL failure or kidney calculi associated with ureteral stones. Stone size larger than 15 mm is associated with single session treatment failure.