title: Expanding the role of the ureteroscope.
abstract: Although the rigid ureteroscope was designed exclusively for the diagnosis and treatment of pathological conditions of the ureter, its smaller diameter and extended length allow for its increased use in endoscopic procedures that cannot be performed successfully with a cystoscope. The indications can be divided into 3 categories: 1) difficult ureteral catheterizations, 2) augmented bladders and diverticula, and 3) narrow, strictured urethras and bladder necks. Several cases from each category are presented to illustrate the expanded role of the rigid ureteroscope in daily urological practice.
authors.affiliation: Department of Urology, New York Medical College, Valhalla 10595.
authors.forename: D M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Schwalb
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Eshghi
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Franco
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Fernandez
authors.forename: J C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Addonizio
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004240:Diverticulum / Q000175:diagnosis; D019723:Endoscopes; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014513:Ureter; D014517:Ureteral Obstruction / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D014521:Urethra / Q000601:surgery; D001743:Urinary Bladder / Q000601:surgery; D001745:Urinary Bladder Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis; D014546:Urinary Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D014567:Urography