Intelligent control of pressure based on ureteral access sheaths: renal pelvic pressure during flexible ureteroscope perfusion at different sites

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of renal pelvic pressure (RPP) control during flexible ureteroscopic perfusion at various sites.

Flexible ureteroscopy for the intelligent control of RPP was based on a ureteral access sheath (UAS) that integrated pressure measurement and suction functions (with automatic adjustment). Eleven consecutive patients with indurating nephrostomy tubes were enrolled. The nephrostomy tube was connected to a disposable invasive blood pressure sensor. The RPP was zeroed after the pressure stabilized. The flow rate and control value were set at 100 ml/min and − 5 mmHg, respectively. An 8.5 Fr flexible ureteroscope was irrigated at the renal pelvis, as well as the upper, middle, and lower calyces of the kidney for 1 min.

All 11 patients with upper urinary tract calculi underwent successful UAS placement. Pressures measured by the sheath and fistula during perfusion were − 5.07 ± 1.41 and − 4.89 ± 1.07 mmHg at the renal pelvis, -5.16 ± 1.36 and − 5.12 ± 1.32 mmHg at the upper calyces, -4.98 ± 0.87 and − 5.39 ± 1.01 mmHg at the middle calyces, as well as -4.95 ± 1.56 and − 5.64 ± 1.24 mmHg at the lower calyces, respectively. There were no significant differences in pressure between the sheath and fistula groups or in sheath and fistula pressures among parts. The RPP fluctuated; however, all values were within the safe limit of 20 mmHg.

The UAS-based pressure monitoring technology can accurately and reliably monitor and control RPP within a set range.