Effect of outflow resistance on intrarenal pressure at different irrigation rates during ureteroscopy: in vivo evaluation.

To maintain visualization and control temperature elevation during ureteroscopy, higher irrigation rates are necessary, but this can increase intrarenal pressure (IRP) and lead to adverse effects like sepsis. The IRP is also dependent on outflow resistance but this has not been quantitatively evaluated in a biological system. In this study, we sought to characterize the IRP as a function of irrigation rate in an in vivo porcine model at different outflow resistances.

Thermal Safety Boundaries for Laser Power and Irrigation Rate During Ureteroscopy: In Vivo Porcine Assessment With a Ho:YAG Laser.

Objective: To map thermal safety boundaries during ureteroscopy (URS) with laser activation in two in vivo porcine subjects to better understand the interplay between laser power, irrigation rate, and fluid temperature in the collecting system.

Methods: URS was performed in two in vivo porcine subjects with a prototype ureteroscope containing a thermocouple at its tip. Up to 6 trials of 60 seconds laser activation were carried out at each selected power setting and irrigation rate.

Laser Heating of Fluid With and Without Stone Ablation: Assessment.

Laser lithotripsy can cause excessive heating of fluid within the collecting system and lead to tissue damage. To better understand this effect, it is important to determine the percentage of applied laser energy that is converted to heat and the percentage used for stone ablation. Our objective was to calculate the percentage of laser energy used for stone ablation based on the difference in fluid temperature measured in an model when the laser was activated without and with stone ablation.

Evaluation of Urology Residency Training and Perceived Resident Abilities in the United States.

Objective: To identify differences and potential deficiencies in urology residency training programs in the United States as they are perceived by residents/recent graduates and program directors.

Materials And Methods: A 45-question and 38-question survey was sent to chief residents/recent graduates and program directors, respectively, at all 120 US urology programs regarding prior medical education, urologic training curricula, and perceived surgical proficiency, among other topics.

Results: Survey response rate was 58% and 52% for residents and program directors, respectively.