Objective: To describe and discuss the feasibility and the use of apnea during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS).
Materials and methods: A discussion of the current literature about the different anesthesia techniques and the use of apnea to improve RIRS by avoiding renal movements over diaphragmatic excursion was performed.
Results: To date, there are no mentions in the literature about the use of apnea as a mechanism to facilitate this procedure that requires extremely precise laser use. A description of the feasibility of apnea during RIRS is described as a technical consideration and discussed.
Conclusion: The use of apnea during RIRS has facilitated the procedure, avoiding renal movements, particularly in special cases where extremely precise maneuvers during laser use are required.
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