Evaluation of a Novel Single-Use Ureteroscope: User Satisfaction & Comparison Survey

OBJECTIVES: The first single-use ureteroscope was brought to market in 2011 with the goal of providing an alternative to traditional reusable ureteroscopes, combatting the growing issues seen throughout endoscopy specialties. This study sought to compare a new pre-market ureteroscope versus current reusable and single-use ureteroscope system in the U.S.

METHODS: To thoroughly examine and understand the new single-use ureteroscope, a total of 14 board certified urologists were recruited to perform simulated antegrade and retrograde ureteroscopies with the pre-market (not yet FDA approved) aScope 5 Uretero (and aBox 2 monitor). Following completion of the simulated ureteroscopy, the urologists completed a 6-question survey across 6 variables seen in table 1. A 10-point scale was used to quantify and compare the performance from 1 (unacceptable) to 10 (excellent), versus the urologist’s current platform.

RESULTS: 28 simulated ureteroscopies were performed by 14 urologists. The pre-market aScope 5 Uretero received high overall ratings across each variable measured compared to the urologist’s current utilized platform, with mean ratings of 8 or higher (ease-of-use mean:8.6, median:9.5; image quality: mean:8.6, median:9; deflection & articulation (without tool) mean:8.3, median:9.5 (with tool) mean:8.1, median:9; ergonomics mean:8.6, median:10; overall rating compared to current platform mean:8.3, median:9). Additionally, 86% of respondents indicated a hybrid use of single-use and reusable ureteroscopes in their facility, with 7% indicating a single-use only or a reusable only platform each, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: The pre-market single-use aScope 5 Uretero received high ratings compared to current reusable and single-use ureteroscope platforms utilized by surveyed urologists and may provide a new safe and effective tool for better treating patients.