Endoscopic observations as a tool to define underlying pathology in kidney stone formers.

Purpose: Advancements in endoscopy offer the possibility of inspection of intrarenal anatomy and pathology. The aim of the study was to evaluate renal papillary appearance in kidney stone formers and to correlate papillary findings with stone type and patient metabolic data.

Materials And Methods: A consecutive cohort of 46 kidney stone formers undergoing retrograde intrarenal surgery was enrolled.

Anatomic variations and stone formation.

Purpose Of Review: The pathophysiological mechanisms in kidney stone formation are insufficiently understood. In order to achieve a better understanding of the complexity of stone formation, studies evaluating anatomical variations in the renal papillae have been performed. This review intends to illuminate recent findings.

Pathophysiological aspects of ureterorenoscopic management of upper urinary tract calculi.

Purpose Of Review: Indications for ureterorenoscopy are expanding without hard scientific evidence to support its efficacy. Therefore, it is extremely important to focus on potential harmful effects of the procedure itself. This review explores how physiology of the upper urinary tract reacts to ureterorenoscopy, potentially translating into harmful effects, and how such pathophysiological processes may be minimized.