FURL vs Mini-PCNL in 2 to 3 cm Stones
Review reports comparable stone-free rates with suction-assisted ureteroscopy
By
Kathryn Wighton
April 17, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: FURL vs Mini-PCNL in 2 to 3 cm Stones
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Renal stones (2 to 3 cm) Key Mechanisms Flexible ureteroscopy with lithotripsy using suction technology Target Population Patients with 2 to 3 cm renal stones Care Setting Multicenter clinical settings
Key Highlights
Immediate stone-free rates: 84% for FURL, 85% for mini-PCNL 3-month stone-free rates: 90% for FURL, 92% for mini-PCNL Suction-assisted FURL associated with lower intrarenal pressure and shorter hospital stays Improved quality of life reported in patients treated with FURL Favorable safety profiles in pediatric and anatomically complex populations Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Individualized treatment selection based on stone characteristics and patient factors Management
Consider suction-assisted FURL for moderate stone burdens (2 to 3 cm) as an alternative to mini-PCNL Monitoring & Follow-up
Follow-up for stone-free rates at immediate and 3-month intervals Risks
Potential for infectious complications, though reduced with suction systems Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with moderate-sized renal stones (2 to 3 cm)
Suction-assisted FURL may provide comparable outcomes to mini-PCNL with additional benefits
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize suction technology to enhance outcomes in flexible ureteroscopy Consider patient quality of life in treatment decisions Advocate for individualized treatment plans based on expertise and patient needs References
