FURL vs Mini-PCNL in 2 to 3 cm Stones - Summary - MDSpire
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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

  • 2 min

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Objective:

To compare the effectiveness and safety of flexible ureteroscopy with lithotripsy using suction technology (FURL) and miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL) for treating 2 to 3 cm renal stones.

Approach:
    Key Findings:
    • Immediate stone-free rates were 84% for FURL and 85% for mini-PCNL.
    • At 3 months, stone-free rates were 90% for FURL and 92% for mini-PCNL.
    • Suction-assisted FURL showed lower intrarenal pressure, shorter hospital stays, and less postoperative pain compared to mini-PCNL.
    • FURL improved quality of life for patients and had favorable safety profiles in pediatric and complex cases.
    Interpretation:

    Suction-assisted FURL offers comparable stone-free outcomes to mini-PCNL for 2 to 3 cm stones, with additional benefits in terms of patient recovery and safety.

    Limitations:
    • Some studies suggested mini-PCNL may have an advantage in immediate stone-free rates.
    • Further multicenter, large-scale trials are needed to clarify the role of FURL in larger stones.
    Conclusion:

    Treatment selection should be individualized based on stone characteristics, patient factors, and available expertise, with suction-assisted FURL emerging as a viable option for moderate stone burdens.

    Sources:

Original Source(s)

FURL vs Mini-PCNL in 2 to 3 cm Stones

  • by Kathryn Wighton

  • April 17, 2026

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