The 41st Annual Congress of the European Association of Urology (EAU 2026) was successfully held in London, United Kingdom, from March 13–16, 2026. As one of the largest and most influential scientific meetings in global urology, EAU26 brought together leading experts to present the latest advances in urological research, technology, and clinical practice.

PART 01

Product Showcase

Innovative Dual-Configuration Design

Convertible multi-wire geometry

· When fully deployed, the device forms a traditional 4-wire configuration suitable for secure capture of intact calculi.

· When partially closed, it converts into a compact 16-wire configuration, enhancing surface contact and fragment containment.

Enhanced fragment management

This dual-structure design enables effective retrieval not only of intact stones but also of residual fragments (2–5 mm) generated during intracorporeal lithotripsy, thereby contributing to improved postoperative stone-free rates (SFR).

Advanced Nitinol Construction

Shape-memory and superelasticity

The nitinol wire construction provides excellent resistance to kinking and deformation, maintaining basket integrity even under significant torsional stress—addressing limitations commonly associated with conventional stainless-steel baskets.

Optimized balance of flexibility and strength

The device is engineered to:

· Navigate tortuous ureteral anatomy smoothly

· Maintain adequate tensile and torsional strength during stone capture

· Reduce the risk of procedural basket distortion or breakage

Clinical Performance Advantages

· Streamlined stone extraction workflow

· Facilitates rapid retrieval in appropriately selected cases

· Demonstrated high clearance rates in non-impacted calculi

The device is designed to support procedural efficiency while maintaining safety and reliability.

PART 02

Supporting Literature and Clinical Evidence

Synergy with Laser Lithotripsy

According to the review article “Key Techniques in Flexible Ureteroscopy”, nitinol braided baskets are particularly effective for managing fragments generated during lower pole lithotripsy. Reported retrieval rates for small fragments and powder-like debris reach up to 98%.

For calcium oxalate monohydrate stones, the progressive opening design of nitinol baskets allows controlled expansion, facilitating precise stone engagement and atraumatic extraction.

Comparative Clinical Outcomes

In a multicenter prospective single-blinded superiority randomized controlled trial (RCT), the combination of a flexible-tip ureteral suction access sheath and a nitinol braided basket significantly improved:

·Immediate postoperative stone-free rate (SFR):81.3% vs. 49.4% (conventional UAS group)

·3-month postoperative SFR: 87.5% vs. 70.0%

·Additionally, the study demonstrated:

· Reduced postoperative febrile events (risk difference −11.9%)

· Improved patient-reported quality-of-life scores

These findings support the role of nitinol retrieval systems as an adjunct to optimized endourological stone management strategies.

Recommended Clinical Indications

· Upper urinary tract stones ≤ 30 mm

· Upper ureteral calculi following failed ESWL

· Impacted ureteral stones

· Complex ureteroscopic cases requiring enhanced fragment control

PART 03

EAU 2026 Booth Highlights

During EAU26, Alton engaged with global urology specialists, distributors, and clinical partners to discuss technological innovation and future collaboration in minimally invasive stone management.

Vision for the Future

把握新风口 赢就新未来

For over two decades, Alton has remained committed to advancing minimally invasive urological solutions through continuous innovation and clinical collaboration.

In 2026 and beyond, we look forward to partnering with global stakeholders to:

· Elevate procedural efficiency

· Enhance patient outcomes

· Expand access to advanced endourological technologies

Together, we move toward a new chapter in precision stone management.