Endoscopic Imaging and Instrumentation

Abstract

With the advancement of materials science and optics, endoscopes have undergone major refinements since Bozzini’s lichtleither, leading to the development of the modern endoscopes. This chapter presents the basic physics and characteristics of both rigid and flexible endoscopy. Included is a discussion on video systems and the integrated operating rooms. The future of cystoscopes, ureteroscopes, and nephroscopes for both rigid and flexible devices is presented. In addition to presenting the present-day endoscopes and delineating their features, this chapter includes discussions of the limiting factors of some of these fragile instruments and future trends to look forward to. It is important for the urologist to have a clear understanding of the characteristics of these highly technical instruments in order to make appropriate choices when purchasing these devices, and in understanding the nuances of handling them in their clinical practice. In addition, discussion of care and sterilization has been presented with recent research data reported to help in the decision-making process of acquiring these endoscopes and using them clinically. With the availability of a wide range of rigid, semirigid, flexible endoscopes, and specifically designed working instruments, most of the upper urinary tract lesions encountered in urology can be effectively diagnosed and treated in a minimally invasive approach. Continued refinements may potentially improve the optics, durability, and efficacy of these instruments as technological advances are incorporated into the design of endoscopes and accessory instruments.