Why Consider Disposable Cystoscopes?
Infection control is a top priority in modern urology. A recent study from Mayo Clinic’s Department of Urology found that switching from reusable to disposable cystoscopes in outpatient settings led to a significant reduction in post-procedure complications, including infections and unplanned patient encounters1.
What Did the Study Show?
Key Results:
- Unplanned Encounters: Only 2.2% of patients with disposable cystoscopes had unplanned follow-ups (such as phone calls, ER visits, or clinic appointments) within 30 days, compared to 7.1% with reusable scopes.
- Urine Cultures Ordered: Just 0.6% in the disposable group required a urine culture, versus 14.8% in the reusable group.
- Confirmed UTIs: 0.2% of the disposable group developed a culture-proven urinary tract infection (UTI), compared to 3.4% with reusable scopes.
- Hospitalizations: Only one hospitalization for UTI occurred in the reusable group, and none in the disposable group.
| Outcome | Reusable Scope | Disposable Scope | Relative Risk (PS-weighted) | P Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unplanned Encounter | 7.1% | 2.2% | 3.47 (1.70–7.08) | <.001 |
| Urine Culture | 14.8% | 0.6% | 29.64 (7.91–111) | <.001 |
| Positive Urine Culture (UTI) | 3.4% | 0.2% | 95.46 (8.68–1,050) | <.001 |
| Hospitalization for UTI | 0.2% | 0% | — | .49 |
Why Are Disposables Better?
Disposable cystoscopes eliminate the risk of cross-contamination from inadequate reprocessing. Even with strict protocols, lapses can occur, so single-use devices provide a safer, more consistent option for infection prevention1.
Practical Implications for Your Practice
If your clinic is considering a transition to disposable cystoscopes to reduce infection risk and post-procedure complications, it’s worth exploring options like the MinervaGrasp as part of your disposable instrument lineup.
Spotlight: MinervaGrasp Stent Graspers and Biopsy Forceps
MinervaGrasp Single-Use Flexible Stent Graspers
- Sterile & Disposable: Designed for single use, eliminating cross-contamination risks.
- Ready to Use: No cleaning or sterilization required—just open and use.
- Reliable Performance: Each device is brand new, ensuring consistent operation.
Technical Specs:
- Diameter: 1.8 mm
- Working Length: 60 cm
- Minimum Channel Size: 2.0 mm (6 Fr)
- Jaw Type: Rat tooth jaws for secure stent grasping
- Handle: Oly style thumb action for precise control
- Compatibility: Fits major cystoscope brands, including Ambu and Olympus models
- Ideal Use: Designed for safe, efficient urinary stent removal in urological procedures.
MinervaGrasp Single-Use Flexible Biopsy Forceps
- Sterile & Safe: Single-use design ensures zero risk of cross-patient contamination.
- High-Quality Construction: Engineered for a firm yet delicate grip, making tissue sampling precise and straightforward.
Technical Specs:
- Diameter: 1.8 mm
- Working Length: 60 cm
- Minimum Channel Size: 2.0 mm (6 Fr)
- Jaw Type: Biopsy jaws for effective tissue retrieval
- Handle: Oly style thumb action for ergonomic control
- Compatibility: Fully compatible with all major cystoscopes, including Ambu models
- Ideal Use: Designed for endoscopic tissue sampling in urology, especially with small-channel cystoscopes.
Why Choose MinervaGrasp Disposable Instruments?
- Patient Safety: Single-use design eliminates infection risks from reprocessing failures.
- Practice Efficiency: No need for cleaning or maintenance—just use and dispose.
- Reliable Fit: Engineered to work seamlessly with leading cystoscope systems.
- Optimized for Urology: Slim, flexible design for navigating narrow channels and performing delicate procedures.
| Instrument | Diameter | Length | Min. Channel Size | Jaw Type | Key Features | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stent Grasper | 1.8 mm | 60 cm | 2.0 mm (6 Fr) | Rat tooth jaws | Sterile, single-use, secure grip | Ambu, Olympus, others |
| Biopsy Forceps | 1.8 mm | 60 cm | 2.0 mm (6 Fr) | Biopsy jaws | Sterile, single-use, precise sampling | Ambu, Olympus, others |
Switching to disposable cystoscopes can significantly reduce post-procedure infections and unplanned encounters in urology practice. Products like the MinervaGrasp stent graspers and biopsy forceps extend these infection control benefits to other critical instruments, offering safety, efficiency, and reliable performance for every procedure1.
Got questions? Want to learn more? Get in touch with us today! We’re here to support you with top-quality medical instruments and supplies that help you provide the best patient care possible - sales@minervahealthinc.com or +1 (833) 464-6378.
1. Geldmaker, L. E., Baird, B. A., Lyon, T. D., Regele, E. J., Wajswol, E. J., Pathak, R. A., Petrou, S. P., Haehn, D. A., Gajarawala, N. M., Ball, C. T., Broderick, G. A., & Thiel, D. D. (2023). Conversion to disposable cystoscopes decreased post-procedure encounters and infections compared to reusable cystoscopes. Urology Practice, 10(4), 311–318. https://doi.org/10.1097/UPJ.0000000000000410
