TABLE 2.

Advantages and disadvantages of single use ureteroscopes.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Reduced risk of contamination Potential for teaching novices Can use accessories with no concern for longevity of scope Use for cases with difficult anatomy and high risk for scope damage, for example, heavily encrusted stent Some parts likely able to be reprocessed in future Available with built–in accessories, for example, LithoVue™ Empower Functional properties match reusable scopes Cost effective in small volume centres and remote sites with no reprocessing facility. Newer models available that do not require specific image processor or monitor Future models to include pressure control, for example, LithoVue™ Elite

Cost benefit not yet known Plastic waste material More CO2 energy emissions with disposable equipment Greater mineral consumption Smaller tip dimensions available in re‐usable models Not available with NBI Reports of sudden image loss Reports of need to convert to reusable scope due to poor image More dependent on reliable outside supply Equipment failure not reimbursed by nearly all of companies Durability of instruments not fully known

Abbreviation: NBI, narrow band imaging.