logo
news

Eliminating X-ray Exposure in Ureteral Stricture Treatment: How Endoscopic Balloon Dilation Is Transforming Operating Ro

March 24, 2026

Eliminating X-ray Exposure in Ureteral Stricture Treatment: How Endoscopic Balloon Dilation Is Transforming Operating Rooms

For decades, the standard treatment for ureteral strictures—a condition often caused by iatrogenic injury, kidney stones, or difficult ureter anatomy—has come with a hidden cost: radiation exposure. Urologists performing balloon dilation under fluoroscopy rely on C-arm imaging and contrast agents to guide balloon placement. While effective, this approach introduces significant challenges, including radiation risk to both patients and surgical staff, increased procedure time, and the logistical complexity of coordinating with radiology departments.

A growing body of clinical evidence suggests there is a better way. Endoscopic balloon dilation, performed under direct visualization through a rigid ureteroscope, is emerging as a safer, more efficient alternative that eliminates X-ray exposure without compromising outcomes.

The Problem with Fluoroscopy-Guided Dilation

Traditional X-ray balloon dilation requires multiple resources: a C-arm, contrast media, and often a second team to manage imaging. Beyond radiation concerns, the need for contrast agents carries risks for patients with renal impairment. Additionally, positioning accuracy can be inconsistent, and the inability to directly visualize the stricture site may lead to suboptimal dilation or prolonged procedure times.

In many hospitals, this approach also creates inter-departmental coordination challenges, delaying procedures and increasing operational costs.

A Radiation-Free Alternative

Hunan Endovascular Device Co., Ltd, under its brand EVT Medical, has developed a next-generation solution: the EVT Ureteral Dilation Balloon Catheter—a non-compliant, high-pressure balloon designed specifically for endoscopic use.

This device enables urologists to perform balloon dilation entirely under direct visualization through the working channel of a rigid ureteroscope. There is no need for fluoroscopy, no C-arm, and no contrast agents. The result is a streamlined, radiation-free procedure that can be performed independently by the urology team.

Technical Specifications: Precision Engineered for Performance

The EVT Ureteral Dilation Balloon Catheter combines advanced materials with a thoughtful design to address the most common clinical challenges in ureteral stricture management.

Parameter Specification
Balloon Diameters 5 mm / 6 mm / 7 mm
Balloon Length 4 cm (standard)
Balloon Outer Diameter 2.1 Fr (ultra-slim profile)
Catheter Outer Diameter 2.4 Fr
Balloon Type Non-compliant
Rated Burst Pressure 14 ATM
Recommended Inflation Pressure 12–14 ATM
Recommended Dilation Time ≥ 30 seconds
Recommended Dilation Cycles 1–2 times
Compatibility (Balloon OD / Working Channel) 7 mm / 5Fr; 6 mm / 4–5Fr; 5 mm / 4–5Fr
Coating Hydrophilic (activates in saline)
Radiopaque Markers Dual platinum markers for optional X-ray confirmation
Shaft Material Stainless steel hypotube for enhanced pushability
Valve Type Three-way / two-way valve with rapid deflation function
Accessories Guide tip, folding device, inflation device

The catheter’s ultra-slim 2.1 Fr balloon profile ensures excellent crossability, allowing it to pass through even narrow or tortuous ureters with minimal trauma. The hydrophilic coating, activated by soaking in saline for 30 seconds, further reduces friction during insertion.

Once positioned, the non-compliant balloon expands to a precise, pre-determined diameter under high pressure—up to 14 ATM—ensuring consistent dilation of fibrotic strictures. The dual platinum radiopaque markers provide optional visual confirmation if X-ray is preferred, though the device is designed for full endoscopic visibility.

Clinical and Operational Benefits
  • Reduced procedure time – no waiting for C-arm setup or radiology staff
  • Lower operational costs – no contrast media or additional imaging resources
  • Enhanced safety – zero radiation exposure for patients and staff
  • Simplified workflow – single-team, single-room procedure
  • Improved patient experience – reduced preoperative stenting requirements

For hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers seeking to optimize ureteroscopic procedures, the shift from X-ray to endoscopic balloon dilation represents a meaningful step forward in both clinical outcomes and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

As urology continues to move toward minimally invasive, radiation-sparing techniques, endoscopic balloon dilation is redefining the standard of care for ureteral strictures. With products like the EVT Ureteral Dilation Balloon Catheter, Hunan Endovascular Device Co., Ltd is equipping urologists with the tools to perform safer, faster, and more independent procedures—all while maintaining the high precision required for successful outcomes.


About Hunan Endovascular Device Co., Ltd
Hunan Endovascular Device Co., Ltd is a medical device company specializing in minimally invasive urology solutions. Under the EVT Medical brand, the company develops innovative products designed to improve procedural safety, simplify workflows, and enhance patient outcomes.


#UreteralStricture #EndoscopicBalloon #Urology #RadiationFree #EVTMedical #MinimallyInvasiveSurgery #BalloonDilation