Update on flexible ureteroscopy

OBJECTIVE: An update on ureteroscopy with focus on current technology and newer instrumentation is presented. METHODS: A literature search through Medline-indexed journals as well as personal comments are included in this review. Topics such as new semirigid and flexible ureteroscopes, lasers, ureteral access sheats, wires and stone extraction devices are outlined. RESULTS: Thanks to the continuous advances of technology and miniaturization of instruments, ureteroscopy is an ever-expanding field. A clear outline of the available instruments and techniques with reference to published results catches the status of this dynamic field. CONCLUSIONS: Urologists are faced with a host of new products related to ureteroscopy every year. This review serves to identify the most useful and proven advances in the field and helps in selecting the equipment needed for a successful minimally invasive approach to upper urinary tract pathologies.