Fluoroless ureteroscopy: in whom and when?

Excerpt

We thank the authors who emphasize a topic popular in urology: radiation exposure and protection [1]. Today, with the increase in the use of imaging methods and in endourological treatment techniques using X-rays, exposure to radiation has increased. Because of the high risk of stone recurrence and frequent use of imaging methods in patients with urolithiasis, radiation exposure is regarded as a major concern for this group of patients. In order to decrease radiation exposure, the “ALARA” (as low as reasonable achievable) principle is an accepted, expected, and desirable protocol [2, 3]. In this study, the authors presented the outcomes of X-ray free retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) with the aim of minimizing radiation exposure to patients and operating room staff. Fluoroscopic imaging was only required in patients who had a double collecting system and no major complication occurred. …