In short
The only FDA approved ureteral access sheath that has two options for placement is now available in the United States. The Flexor® Parallel™ Rapid Release™ Ureteral Access Sheath allows urologists to use a single wire guide that functions as both a working wire and a safety wire.
Background
To place a ureteral access sheath, physicians will often use a working wire guide and a safety wire guide to allow continued access to the kidney. With the Flexor Parallel, physicians can place just one wire that guides the dilator and acts as a safety wire.
The Flexor Parallel has a slit on the dilator that guides the wire outside of the sheath. When the dilator is withdrawn, the sheath and the wire guide remain parallel to each other, which leaves a clear working channel through the sheath.
The physician can also choose to place the Flexor Parallel in the same manner as a traditional Flexor sheath.
Company comments
“The Flexor Parallel presents an opportunity to use less product and save costs for hospitals,” said Jean-Marc Creissel, global leader of Cook Medical’s Urology division. “This product means hospitals can stock one sheath that serves two placement preferences.”
Source: Cook Medical
published: January 28, 2013 in: Cook, Launches / Withdrawals, Technology, Urology