Ureteroscopy and stones: Current status and future expectations

Abstract

Urolithaisis is becoming an ever increasing urological, nephrological and primary care problem. With a lifetime prevalence approaching 10% and increasing morbidity due to stone disease, the role of ureteroscopy and stone removal is becoming more important. We discuss the current status of stone disease and review the ever increasing role that ureteroscopy has to play in its management. We discuss technological advances that have been made in stone management and give you an overview of when, how and why ureteroscopy is the most common treatment option for stone management. We touch on the role of robotic ureteroscopy and the future of ureteroscopy in the next 10 years.

Keywords: Ureteroscopy; Techniques; Ureteral stones; Calculi; Treatment; Advances

Core tip: This manuscript demonstrates the advent, technical progression and modern use of ureteroscopy for stone disease. It begins with a brief epidemiology of renal stone disease, technological advances in flexible ureteroscope, use of laser for stone disease and the different types of surgical options available. We also share the current evidence of ureteroscopy for stone treatment in obesity, pregnancy, pediatrics and patients with bleeding diathesis and large renal stones. In the end we discuss what the future holds for ureteroscopy including an insight into robotic ureteroscopy.