Ureteroscopic surgery: changing times and perspectives.

Ureteroscopy developed as an extension of cystoscopic techniques into the upper urinary tract with smaller, rigid, and flexible endoscopes. Smaller working instruments have made therapeutic procedures possible. Ureteroscopy has become the technique of choice to diagnose and treat benign essential hematuria and has a major role in treating ureteropelvic junction obstruction, upper tract neoplasms, and calculi. Finally, there is a need for smaller and more effective endoscopes and working devices.