Comparative Evaluation of the VISOR System and FANS for Stone Clearance

Overview

This study compares the Vortex Intelligent Stone Optimized Removal (VISOR) system with the Flexible Navigable Suction Ureteral Access Sheath (FANS) for stone clearance and intrarenal pressure management in vitro. Key outcomes include single-session stone clearance efficiency, operative time, and total laser energy use, as defined by the study protocol.

Background

Kidney stone disease affects a significant portion of the population, with high recurrence rates. Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) is a common treatment, and optimizing intrarenal pressure and suction techniques is crucial for improving outcomes. The VISOR system is designed to enhance stone removal efficiency.

Data Highlights

No numerical data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

• The VISOR system integrates suction and irrigation, potentially improving stone clearance efficiency.
• FANS techniques require repeated scope withdrawal, increasing operative time and surgeon fatigue.
• Automated intrarenal pressure regulation may reduce complications such as pyelovenous backflow.
• The study utilized a 3D-printed renal model for accurate in vitro evaluation.
• Stone fragments were standardized in size and composition for consistent results.

Clinical Implications

Understanding the comparative effectiveness of these systems can inform surgical decision-making in kidney stone management.

Conclusion

The VISOR system presents a novel approach to enhance stone clearance during RIRS, warranting further clinical investigation.

Related Resources & Content

1. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
2. World Journal of Urology, 2026 -- Suction, flexion, and noise profile of three flexible and navigable suction ureteral access sheaths: a benchtop comparison
3. Frontiers in Surgery, 2026 -- Comparison of vacuum-assisted flexible ureteroscopy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy for 2–3 cm upper tract stones: a real-world cohort study
4. Initial Multicenter Evaluation of the Innovative CVAC 2.0 Ureteroscope Featuring Concurrent Irrigation and Aspiration Capabilities
5. Guidelines - EAU Guidelines on Urolithiasis - Uroweb
6. Efficacy and Safety of Flexible and Navigable Suction Ureteral Access Sheath Versus Conventional Ureteral Access Sheath in Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - PMC
7. Parameter mapping for the use of flexible and navigable suction sheath: an in vitro study.
8. Guidelines - EAU Guidelines on Urolithiasis - Uroweb
9. Efficacy and Safety of Flexible and Navigable Suction Ureteral Access Sheath Versus Conventional Ureteral Access Sheath in Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - PMC
10. Parameter mapping for the use of flexible and navigable suction sheath: an in vitro study.