The following is a summary of “A Pilot Study of a Novel Syphon Ureteral Access Sheath Shows Potential to Reduce Renal Pressures and Improve Irrigant Flow,” published in the JUNE 2023 issue of Urology by Yekani, et al.

For a study, researchers sought to describe a novel syphon ureteral access sheath (UAS) designed for use during flexible uretero-renoscopy (fURS) and to report on a pilot study assessing intrarenal pressures (IRP) and irrigant flow volumes compared to traditional UAS.

Patients with single, <2cm intrarenal nephrolithiasis undergoing routine fURS were included in the study after obtaining written informed consent. Irrigation during fURS was conducted using the novel 11/13 Fr UAS with and without the syphon box attached. Minute irrigant flow volume, steady state, and bolus IRP were measured and compared.

A total of 10 participants (6 males and 4 females) were treated with the syphon UAS, and all procedures were safely completed without intraoperative complications. The mean baseline IRP with the syphon was significantly lower compared to without the syphon (18 vs 29 mmHg, P < .001, SD 4.0 vs 4.8). The mean minute irrigant flow volume was significantly higher with the syphon compared to without the syphon (31 vs 21 ml, P < .001, SD 6.4 vs 3.3). The mean peak IRP following a 10 ml bolus was significantly lower with the syphon than without the syphon (71 vs 104 mmHg, P = .03, SD 74 vs 59).

The novel syphon UAS, which differs from traditional devices by incorporating a syphon mechanism, showed promise in reducing IRP and increasing irrigant flow compared to traditional UAS in this pilot trial. However, further assessment in a larger clinical trial was needed to establish its efficacy and safety.

Source: goldjournal.net/article/S0090-4295(23)00220-0/fulltext