Retrograde flexible ureteroscopic approach of upper urinary tract pathology: What is the status in 2014?

Flexible uretero-renoscopy witnessed dramatic technological improvements, ultimately translating in more diverse indications, better instrument durability, procedural efficacy and safety. Diagnostic exploration of the upper urinary tract, treatment of selected cases of ureteral and especially pyelocaliceal stones, caliceal diverticulum and infundibular stenosis, treatment, and follow-up of upper urinary tract tumors are the main indications for this approach. We review the technique, results and complications of retrograde flexible ureteroscopy, with an emphasis on the latest developments of the method.