Vantagens custo-efetivas da utilização de ureteroscópios flexíveis descartáveis em comparação com o uso de ureteroscópios flexíveis reprocessáveis

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the cost-effectiveness of using disposable flexible ureteroscopes versus using reprocessable flexible ureteroscopes. Methods: Integrative literature review conducted in the SciELO, LILACS and MEDLINE databases, using the descriptors ureteroscopy, flexion resistance, marketing, cost-benefit analysis, and sterilization, whose object deals with the cost-effective advantages of using the flexible ureteroscope disposable. Results: Thirty-five articles were found and four were used in the study. In addition, characteristics of seven models of flexible ureteroscopes commercialized in Brazil, that are currently better known, were presented. The results were based on a joint analysis of the selected articles and characteristics of the flexible models presented, and discussed in two categories: the evolution of flexible ureteroscopes; and marketing mix - flexible single-use ureteroscopes. Conclusion: Despite the scarcity of research that deepens the costs of using a flexible single-use ureteroscope when compared to a reprocessable one, the benefits arising from the innovations added to these devices are notorious, giving a positive return both to the professional who uses it and to the patient, making it necessary to further analyze the possibility of migration from the “culture” of using flexible reprocessable ureteroscopes to disposable ones