Honest Work Gruppe

The synergy between ureteroscopy and laser technology has redefined the management of urolithiasis.

Both semi-rigid and flexible scopes utilize the Holmium:YAG laser, but the technique of fragmentation differs by scope type. In semi-rigid ureteroscopy, the stability of the instrument allows for "fragmentation and extraction," where the stone is broken into several large pieces and manually removed using a nitinol basket. This ensures immediate stone-free status but can be time-consuming. Because semi-rigid scopes have larger working channels, they can accommodate thicker laser fibers that deliver higher energy pulses without the risk of fiber breakage during bending.

Flexible ureteroscopy has popularized the "dusting" technique, particularly with the advent of high-frequency Thulium Fiber Lasers. In this approach, the laser is set to high frequency and low energy, pulverizing the stone into fine, silt-like dust. This dust is small enough to pass spontaneously with the patient's urine, reducing the need for tedious basket extraction…

Long-term testosterone therapy requires a structured monitoring plan to ensure safety and efficacy. During the first year of treatment, patients typically undergo blood tests every three to six months to check testosterone levels and hematocrit.

A common side effect of therapy is erythrocytosis—an overproduction of red blood cells—which can increase blood viscosity and must be managed by dose adjustment or therapeutic phlebotomy.

Prostate health is another key area of surveillance. While current evidence does not suggest that TRT causes prostate cancer, it can stimulate the growth of an existing tumor. Therefore, regular digital rectal exams and PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing are standard for men over a certain age. Recent large-scale trials have provided reassurance regarding cardiovascular safety, showing that TRT does not significantly increase the risk of major cardiac events when prescribed correctly. Finally, patients should be monitored for improvements in bone density and mood, with therapy being discontinued if…

A significant trend in 2026 is the "transient implant"—a device designed to perform its function and then disappear. Biodegradable polymers like PLA, PLGA, and specialized polyurethanes are being used to create scaffolds for cardiac repair and vascular grafts.

In the case of bioresorbable stents, the device provides the necessary structural support to keep a blood vessel open for several months during the healing process. Once the vessel has remodeled and can support itself, the polymer breaks down into harmless byproducts (like water and carbon dioxide) that the body naturally excretes. This approach eliminates the long-term risks associated with permanent "metal caging" of vessels, such as chronic inflammation or late-stage thrombosis, and removes the need for secondary surgeries.

The complexity of freeze-drying equipment necessitates a robust preventative maintenance schedule to avoid costly downtime and the loss of sensitive materials.

Technical services focus on the health of the vacuum pumps, the integrity of the hydraulic shelf-ram systems, and the detection of leaks in the refrigeration circuits. Helium leak testing is a common service used to identify microscopic breaches in the chamber or condenser that could compromise the vacuum. Additionally, the heat transfer fluid must be periodically tested for degradation or contamination, as any change in its thermal properties can lead to uneven drying across the shelves. Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of the equipment and the safety of the products being processed.