Digital ureteroscopy: The next step

Background: Flexible ureteroscopy is used for diagnosing and treating upper urinary tract diseases. Despite technological advances in making flexible ureteroscopes smaller, they suffer from a grainy image. Therefore, new technology with better resolution is needed. New Technology: The new Invisio DUR-D digital flexible ureteroscope from Gyrus ACMI was tested. The tip houses dual LED-driven light carriers, which obviates the need for an external light source, thus eliminating the risk of drape fires and patient burns. A 1-mm digital camera at the tip eliminates the need for fragile low-resolution fiberoptics and provides superior resolution. Since there are no external cameras or light cables, the DUR-D is much lighter (505 g compared with 1012 g). Laser detection system deactivates the laser to prevent accidental misfiring of the laser within the ureteroscope. Conclusions: The latest generation of digital ureteroscopes provides superior resolution and safety. Long term use is needed to test its durability.