Single-Use Ureteroscopes.

A PubMed search using the terms "single use" and "ureteroscope" was performed to identify published studies on this topic. In addition, the abstracts of the annual meeting of the World Congress of Endourology and the American Urologic Association since 2010 were reviewed. Here we present a review of published studies on single-use ureteroscopes.

Innovations in Disposable Technologies for Stone Management.

Disposable stone retrieval devices are an inherent element of modern-day stone management. Efforts are being made in several different areas to improve the efficiency of stone removal. Ureteral access sheaths with pressure control features as well as suction capabilities are being explored as one such mechanism. Additional efforts are being made to improve stone basket design, grasping capabilities, and deployment mechanisms. Finally, bioadhesives are being developed to potentially improve the capability to extract otherwise difficult small stone fragments and debris from the kidney.

Disposable devices for RIRS: where do we stand in 2013? What do we need in the future?

PURPOSE: Disposable devices for retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) form a significant part of the urologist's armamentarium for the endoscopic management of urologic diseases. Herein, we provide an overview of the literature regarding the advances and controversies of these devices. METHODS: A PubMed search was used to identify the literature discussing the subject of disposable devices for RIRS. Articles published between 2012 and 2013 were considered. RESULTS: Ureteral access implements including access sheaths, wires, and dilators are an area of both improvement and controversy regarding their proper use. The safety, effectiveness, and limitations of lithotrites continue to be refined. Stone retrieval devices are undergoing persistent miniaturization, and their use may prove to be cost effective. The debate over perioperative stenting remains, while symptom management is explored. A cost-effective option for disposable flexible ureteroscopy shows promise. CONCLUSIONS: While rapid advances in technology and knowledge continue, continual improvements are necessary. Disposable equipment needs persistent refinement and possible miniaturization. More efficient fragment retrieval devices are needed. Durability of laser fibers and safety within ureteroscopes needs to be improved. Reducing stent morbidity remains an ongoing challenge. Lastly, costs need to be reduced by the further development of disposable flexible ureteroscopes and in the recyclability of disposable devices to improve availability worldwide.

Tubo de sostén para la colostomía transversa / Tube for transverse loop colostomy

Introducción: Una colostomía transversa debe ser desfuncionalizante y de fácil manejo. Lo clásico para sostener el colon exteriorizado es la utilización de diversos tipos de varillas o tubos. Objetivo: Presentar un tubo de sostén para la colostomía transversa sencillo de confeccionar y económico. Pacientes y Métodos: Desde 1988 utilizamos para todas las colostomías transversas en asa un tubo de sostén en forma de H, confeccionado con un catéter de polivinilo y dos capuchones de aguja 25/8 mm para mantenerlo in situ sin necesidad de fijarlo con puntos. Resultados: Entre 1988 y 2006 utilizamos este tubo de sostén en 46 pacientes. El tiempo de permanencia fue en promedio de 8 (rango, 5-10) días. No hubo complicaciones vinculadas a su uso y la desfuncionalización del colon distal fue completa. Conclusión: Presentamos un tubo de sostén para la colostomía en asa que es práctico, económico, fácil de confeccionar en cualquier medio y exento de complicaciones.