Assessment of novel ureteral occlusion device and comparison with stone cone in prevention of stone fragment migration during lithotripsy

Purpose: To present the initial ex-vivo results of a new ureteral-occlusion device (Cook Urological, Spencer, IN) for preventing the retrograde migration of particles during ureteroscopy and its comparison with the Stone Cone (Microvasive-Boston Scientific Corp., Spencer, IN). Materials and Methods: We designed an ex-vivo model using a porcine kidney with an intact ureter. Standardized plastic beads were placed in the proximal ureter. Each device was deployed proximal to the beads during ureteroscopy, and the number of beads impeded by each device was recorded. Results: The new device was successful at preventing retrograde migration of beads >= 1.5 mm. Furthermore, 1.0-mm beads were impeded by the center of the device, although they passed through the periphery. The Stone Cone blocked the retrograde migration of beads >= 2.5 mm. Conclusion: The new occlusion device was efficacious in an ex-vivo model. It appears to prevent the migration of smaller particles than are blocked by the Stone Cone.