The LithoVue™ displayed good image quality, active deflection and maneuverability. Further evaluation of surgical outcomes and cost analysis will help to present the best utility of this single-use FURS in current practice.
Cystinuria continues to be one of the most challenging stone diseases. During the latest decades our knowledge of the molecular basis of cystinuria has expanded. Today 160 different mutations in the SLC3A1 gene and 116 in the SLC7A9 gene are listed. The full implications of type A, B or AB status are not yet fully understood but may have implications for prognosis, management and treatment. Despite better understanding of the molecular basis of cystinuria the principles of recurrence prevention have remained essentially the same through decades. No curative treatment of cystinuria exists, and patients will have a life long risk of stone formation, repeated surgery, impaired renal function and quality of life. Therapy to reduce stone formation is directed towards lowering urine cystine concentration and increasing cystine solubility. Different molecules that could play a role in promoting nucleation and have a modulating effect on cystine solubility may represent new targets for cystinuria research. Investigation of newer thiol-containing drugs with fewer adverse effects is also warranted. Determining cystine capacity may be an effective tool to monitor the individual patient's response. Compliance in cystinuric patients concerning both dietary and pharmacological intervention is poor. Frequent clinical follow-up visits in dedicated centres seem to improve compliance. Cystinuric patients should be managed in dedicated centres offering the complete range of minimal invasive treatment modalities, enabling a personalized treatment approach in order to reduce risk and morbidity of multiple procedures.
Upper urinary tract physiology has unique features that may be pushed into pathophysiological processes by the unique elements of ureterorenoscopy: access and irrigation. Pharmacological ureteral relaxation during ureterorenoscopy deserves further attention with regard to reducing complications and postoperative pain.
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