The impact of siphoning effect on renal pelvis pressure during ureteroscopy using an in vitro kidney and ureter model.

PURPOSE

To experimentally measure renal pelvis pressure (P) in an ureteroscopic model when applying a simple hydrodynamic principle, the siphoning effect.

METHODS

A 9.5Fr disposable ureteroscope was inserted into a silicone kidney-ureter model with its tip positioned at the renal pelvis. Irrigation was delivered through the ureteroscope at 100 cm above the renal pelvis. A Y-shaped adapter was fitted onto the model's renal pelvis port, accommodating a pressure sensor and a 4 Fr ureteral access catheter (UAC) through each limb. The drainage flowrate through the UAC tip was measured for 60 s each run. The distal tip of the UAC was placed at various heights below or above the center of the renal pelvis to create a siphoning effect. All trials were performed in triplicate for two lengths of 4Fr UACs: 100 cm and 70 cm (modified from 100 cm).

RESULTS

P was linearly dependent on the height difference from the center of the renal pelvis to the UAC tip for both tested UAC lengths. In our experimental setting, P can be reduced by 10 cmH0 simply by lowering the distal tip of a 4 Fr 70 cm UAC positioned alongside the ureteroscope by 19.7 cm. When using a 4 Fr 100 cm UAC, P can drop 10 cmH0 by lowering the distal tip of the UAC 23.3 cm below the level of the renal pelvis.

CONCLUSION

Implementing the siphoning effect for managing P during ureteroscopy could potentially enhance safety and effectiveness.