At the Scrub Sink: Evaluation of Ureteric Patency During Cystoscopy

At the scrub sink, we discussed the best ways to evaluate for ureteric patency during cystoscopy. For decades, surgeons have been using intravenous indigo carmine for evaluating ureteric patency. Ten years ago, a shortage of indigo carmine halted production. In response to the shortage of indigo carmine, surgeons went into action, developing alternative strategies that are evidence-based and cost-effective. The shortage is over now; the lessons we learned as a subspeciality can help us address the next challenge.