METHODS FOR THE MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT OF URINARY STONES

摘要

Methods using a small outer diameter ureteroscope may help overcome many of the problems associated with the prior art devices and methods for removing kidney stones. The ureteroscope includes an elongate member having a distal portion, a proximal portion, and an inner conduit that extends longitudinally between the proximal and distal portions. The elongate member is made from a passively flexible material that is capable of being inserted and directed through a patient's body cavity, such as the ureter, by manual direction and pressure so that minimal, if any, additional mechanical or steering mechanisms are present. An imaging device and light source are provided at the distal portion of the elongate member to allow for positioning the device with respect to the stone. A laser fiber can be directed through the conduit to destroy a targeted stone.