Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Since 2011, single-use (SU) flexible ureteroscopes have been an available alternative to traditional reusable (RU) ureteroscopes with the aim of combatting rising repair and infection issues, common throughout endoscopy specialties. Despite many SU ureteroscope options available, adoption remains combatted by performance concerns¹. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of the aScope 5 Uretero SU ureteroscope platform.
METHODS: From July to September 2024, 61 procedures using the aScope 5 Uretero flexible single-use ureteroscope were completed by 20 urologists in academic medical centers, community hospitals and surgery centers across the United States. After each procedure, urologists completed a survey to evaluate their experience and assess the performance of the aScope 5 Uretero system. A 5-point qualitative scale was used to rate the performance from ‘Very poor’ (1) to ‘Very good’ (5) and converted to a numerical scale for analysis.
RESULTS: The aScope 5 Uretero SU ureteroscope platform received high ratings across each metric captured, with mean ratings of 4 or higher (image quality:4.4, image quality with laser use:4.0, ergonomics (weight and feel):4.8, ease of tool passage:4.3, ability to aspirate fluids:4.3, maneuverability:4.5, torque transmission:4.4, articulation without tool:4.6, articulation with tool:4.5, performance of display & processing unit:4.4, overall ease of use and set up:4.7 and overall satisfaction:4.3). Most respondents (>70%) rated the system ‘good’ (4) to ‘very good’ (5) across each aforementioned metric. Additionally, 34% of respondents indicated they experienced availability issues with their current RU ureteroscope and noted common issues including damaged/broken scopes, reprocessing delays and repair issues.
CONCLUSIONS: The novel SU ureteroscope performed well across flexible ureteroscopy procedures and received high performance ratings by urologists. As with previously published urologist feedback on this device, this study demonstrated that the aScope 5 Uretero remains highly rated by users and provides a safe and readily available alternative to better treat patients.