Nephroscopes
A nephroscope is an endoscopic instrument designed to visualize the interior of the kidney and to facilitate intrarenal procedures, most commonly through a percutaneous approach known as percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). It is inserted through a small tract created in the flank to access the renal collecting system. Nephroscopes can be rigid or flexible; rigid models are common in PCNL for direct visualization of calyces, while flexible nephroscopes permit navigation to complex intrarenal anatomy.
Design features typically include a tubular body with an optical channel for viewing, one or more working
Indications primarily involve treatment of renal stones, especially large, complex, or multiple calculi that are difficult
Procedure overview: after anesthesia, a percutaneous tract is created under image guidance (ultrasound or fluoroscopy). The
Complications can include bleeding, infection, injury to renal tissue, urine leakage, or damage to surrounding structures.