Size matters: Not all scopes are created equal! A flow rate reality check for single-use flexible ureteroscopes

PURPOSE: To evaluate the irrigation flow parameters of a 3.6Fr working channel in single-use flexible ureteroscopes with empty and without an instrument in the straight and flexed tip positions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An in-vitro experimental study including 8 single-use flexible ureteroscopes of varying size ranging from 6.3Fr to 9.0Fr in diameter and marketed as having a 3.6Fr working channel. The evaluation was performed under three different conditions: (1) With empty working channel, (2) With a 272 μm laser fiber (3) With a 2.2Fr nitinol basket. The trials were performed with the distal tip of the scope in a straight position and with right and left complete deflection. RESULTS: The maximal and minimal irrigation flow rates of 37.0 and 26.5 ml/min were observed with the 7.5Fr HU30S and with 6.3Fr HU30M HugeMed, respectively. The 6.3Fr HU30M scope was associated with statistically significant worse irrigation flow rates compared to 7.5Fr HU30S and 9.0HU30 scopes under all conditions. Deflection of the scopes affected the flow rates in up to 11% with empty channel, with minimal or no effect with laser fiber and basket inserted. CONCLUSION: We found that the novel 6.3Fr HU30M flexible ureteroscope featuring a 3.6Fr working channel was associated with significantly reduced irrigation flows compared to 7.5Fr HU30S and 9.0Fr HU30 scopes regardless of the channel occupancy. Presence of larger diameter working instruments significantly reduced the flow rates, regardless of the ureteroscope used. Deflection of the scope tip does impact flow rates, particularly with empty working channel.