Efficacy analysis of a flexible-tip vacuum sheath combined with a 7.5F single-use digital ureteroscope in the treatment of upper urinary tract stones
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background: The management of upper urinary tract stones, particularly complex and lower pole calculi, remains a significant clinical challenge. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel technique combining a flexible-tip vacuum sheath with a 7.5F single-use digital ureteroscope, which is designed to overcome the limitations of traditional access sheaths. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 74 patients with upper urinary tract stones treated between September 2024 and May 2025. All procedures were performed by a single surgeon using the combined technique. Primary outcomes were stone-free rate (SFR) assessed by computed tomography (CT) on postoperative day 1 and at 1 month, categorized as Grade A (absolute stone-free), Grade B (fragments ≤2 mm), Grade C (fragments 2.1-4 mm), and Grade D (fragments >4 mm). Secondary outcomes included operative time, hospital stay, basket usage, and complication rates. Results: The mean operative time was 105.95 minutes, and the mean postoperative hospital stay was 1.69 days. The SFR on postoperative day 1 was 75.68% for Grade A, 2.70% for Grade B, and 9.46% for Grade C. The final SFR at 1 month was 75.68% for Grade A, 2.70% for Grade B, and 16.21% for Grade C. A stone basket was used in 27 cases (36.5%), primarily for stone displacement (10 cases). No major complications occurred. Two patients (2.7%) experienced a transient fever below 38.5 ℃. Conclusions: The combination of a flexible-tip vacuum sheath and a 7.5F single-use digital ureteroscope is proven to be a highly effective and safe treatment modality, demonstrating high SFRs, a low complication profile, and reduced reliance on ancillary instruments.
Authors: Yang Hong, Lizhe An, Luping Yu, Qingquan Xu, Tao Xu
Institutions: Peking University, Peking University People's Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7128733259