A useful aid in navigating the tortuous ureter.

摘要

Navigating the tortuous ureter is challenging and could lead to perforation. Previously described techniques involve different types of guidewire and ureteric catheters.1 When routine techniques fail, we suggest using a 5Fr curved-tip multipurpose catheter (Tempo? 5; Cordis, Bridgewater, NJ, US; ￡12.08). The curved tip combined with the ability to rotate on its axis facilitates the navigation through the tortuosity, and allows directing a hydrophilic guidewire in a more controlled and precise manner to gain access to the kidney (Fig 1). The catheter can then be advanced into the collecting system and the wire exchanged with a stiffer one for stenting or intervention.