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To assess the use of miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL) for renal stones in children, as well as its safety and efficacy. Seventy-seven patients with more than 15 mm renal stones whose age was less than 15 years were enrolled in this prospective case-controlled study at Al-Ramadi Teaching Hospital, Ar Razi Private Hospital, and Ghazi Al-Hariri Hospital for Surgical Specialties, Anbar and Baghdad, Iraq. The study was conducted from January 2020 to January 2024. The group mentioned above served as group A, and it was compared to the control group (group B), which consisted of 70 adult patients aged 18–60 years. Patients in both groups underwent mini-PCNL. Gender, stone size and location, time of operation, stone-free rate, hemoglobin drop, need for blood transfusion, postoperative fever, associated visceral injury, and need for further interventions such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or flexible ureteroscopy (ESWL or FURS) were compared in both groups. The age of patients in group A ranged from 8 months to 15 years with a mean (4.30 ± 3.16), while in group B ranged from 18 to 60 years with a mean (36.3 ± 12.0), p-value 0.001. There were no statistically significant differences regarding gender distribution, stone size, and location, p-value > 0.05. The stone-free rate was 87.01% for group A and 88.57% for group B, with no statistical difference, p-value 0.773. Hemoglobin drop was 1.096 ± 0.412 for group A and 1.195 ± 0.110 for group B, p-value 0.046. Blood transfusion was needed in one case in each group with no statistical difference, p-value 0.946. The need for ESWL was 3 cases in group A, and 2 cases in group B, with no statistical difference between the two groups, p-value 0.729. The need for FURS was 4 cases in group A and 3 cases in group B, p-value 0.796. Operative time was 30 to 125 min in group A and 34 to 129 min in group B, p-value 0.941. Postoperative fever was seen in 23 cases in group A and 21 cases in group B, p-value 0.986. Minor liver injury was seen was seen in one case in each group. The use of mini-PCNL for treating renal stones in children is safe and effective as it is associated with a relatively low rate of significant complications and achieves a high stone-free rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Renal stone disease is a common medical issue in many regions, leading to significant morbidity and loss of man hours. The disease predominantly affects the economically active population, thus having a socio economic impact. Unlike in the West, where detailed demographic data is available, India lacks comprehensive records on this condition. The prevailing theory is that kidney stones often serve as repositories for bacteria. The question which arises is whether bacterial infection is a precursor to or a result of stone formation. Multiple factors contributing to stone formation have been noted by various researchers. The healthcare burden in the United States alone includes over 185,000 hospital admissions and expenditures surpassing $2 billion annually. Supersaturation of calcium and oxalate in urine, exceeding their solubility limits, have been identified as a primary factor. This study evaluates the bacteriological profile of cultures derived from renal stones and their antibiotic sensitivities to better understand the microbial involvement in stone pathogenesis. Methods: This is a prospective, observational study aimed at analyzing the culture and sensitivity patterns of renal stones obtained from patients undergoing percutaneous and ureteroscopic stone extraction over a period of 18 months. Results: Out of 120 patients studied, 34 patients (28.3%) were culture positive. Of there, coagulase negative staphylococcus isolates noted in 9 patients (26.5%), E. coli was the next most common isolate seen in 8 patients (23.5%). Pseudomonas was noted in 6 patients (17.6%), other organisms in 5 patients (14.7%). Acinetobacter was isolated in 1 patient. Analysis of antibiotic susceptibility showed most of these sensitive to varying degrees to aminoglycosides and ciprofloxacin. Conclusion: In conclusion, culture and sensitivity testing of renal stones is a valuable tool in the management of nephrolithiasis, particularly in patients with recurrent or complicated infections. By identifying the bacterial organisms within the stones and determining their antibiotic susceptibility, clinicians can provide targeted treatment, improve patient outcomes, and reduce the risk of recurrenc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The super-pulsed thulium fiber laser (SP TFL) is a new alternative to high-power holmium laser for intracorporeal lithotripsy. The SP TFL has shown advantages in dusting regimes, but benefits in fragmentation regimes are less understood. The second-generation SP TFL introduces an advanced fragmentation pulse (AFP) sequence to maximize SP TFL's efficiency in fragmentation. This study evaluates safety and efficacy of the SP TFL fragmentation mode in ureteroscopy (URS) and mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL). Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in two phases. Safety of a new AFP was compared ex vivo to standard SP TFL fragmentation settings by measuring the dimensions of wounds created in porcine kidney after laser exposure for 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 s. The resulting wounds were evaluated histologically using nitro blue tetrazolium chloride (NBTC) stain. In the clinical phase, the second-generation SP TFL was used to fragment and extract ureteral and renal stones in 40 patients using ureteroscopic and percutaneous approaches. The stone size, volume, density, laser-on-time, and total energy were recorded for each patient. In addition, the chemical composition, ablation rate, and ablation efficiency were assessed for each stone treatment. Results: The ex vivo mucosa damage profiles caused by AFP were similar to those caused by regular pulses. In clinical phase, the median volume and density for ureteral stones were 0.4 cm3 and 1029 Hounsfield units (HU), for renal stones 1.3 cm3 and 1113 HU, respectively. Different stone types were crushed into fragments suitable for extraction. The mean AFP energy was 3 J and the average power for ureteral stones was 10.5 W, whereas for renal stones it was 28.5 J and 31 W, respectively. The overall complication rate was low in both groups. Conclusion: ST PFL with AFP capability facilitates effective fragmentation of ureteral and renal stones of any composition during URS and mini-PCNL with minimal complication rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusion Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is the recommended treatment for stones >2 cm in size. The majority of PCNL are still conducted with larger telescopes using tracts up to 30F in size. We have conducted a randomized pilot study comparing mini PCNL with our standard 22F PCNL for renal stones between 10 and 25 mm in diameter.Patients were randomized to either PCNL (24F Amplatz sheath/22F nephrosocope) or mini PCNL (18F Amplatz sheath/11F nephroscope). All operations were performed in the modified supine position. Patients were reviewed with imaging to assess stone clearance and complications.Eighteen well matched patients were randomized. All procedures were completed as planned and all were tubeless with no complications. There were no differences in operative time, analgesia requirements or length of stay. Seven of nine (77.75%) standard PCNL were completely stone free at CT review with a 2 mm and a 5 mm fragments in the other patients. Four (44.4%) of the mini PCNL group were stone free, with stone fragments 4–10 mm remaining in the others. 40 patients/arm would be required for an adequately powered study.There was no advantage in using mini PCNL compared to our standard 24F PCNL in this pilot study. There may be benefits in using mini PCNL compared to the more widely used 30F PCNL and it may be a more cost‐effective alternative to laser pyeloscopic stone procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Urosepsis currently accounts for half of all post flexible ureterorenoscopy (F-URS) complications, with an incidence of up to 4.3%. It represents a quarter of all septic episodes in adults and 2% of hospital spendings. The primary objective of this study was to define the predictive clinical parameters that increase the risk of urosepsis after F-URS. Subjects/patients (or materials) and methods: This prospective multicentric study evaluated patients who underwent F-URS for calculus between June 2016 and June 2018 in eleven French centers. Clinical, bacteriological, morpho-constitutional stone data, intraoperative information and complications were compared. Risk factors for postoperative urosepsis were identified and analyzed. Results: We included 486 F-URS in 432 patients. The ureter was prepared using a double J stent in 51% of cases, a digital endoscope was used in 56% of patients with a median operative time of 120 min IQR (90–125) and using a sheath in 90% of cases. Postoperative urosepsis was observed in 18 patients (4%) with a median time to onset of 2 days IQR (1–5). The presence of coronary insufficiency: 3 (17%) vs 14 (3%) p = 0.005, a larger stone diameter: 11 cm [9–17] vs 10 cm [8–13] p = 0.02, a positive preoperative urine culture even when treated: 3 (17%) vs 56 (12%) p = 0.04, as well as the final composition of the type IV calculus (carbapatite or struvite) 5 (28%) vs 20 (4%) p < 0.001, were significantly associated with the occurrence of urosepsis. In multivariate analysis, only the presence of a type IV stone (OR = 14.0; p = 0.025) remained significant. Conclusion: Ureteroscopic treatment of a type IV stone (carbapatite or struvite) in a patient should raise concerns about the risk of post-operative urosepsis. When recognized intraoperatively, they should lead to a pyelic urinary sample and prolonged clinical surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This article attempts to provide a comprehensive review of the learning objectives and importance of the supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) technique. Material method: We retrospectively reviewed the cases of Supine PCNL between January 2018 and January 2024. We divided the groups into 3: residents between 2 and 3 years (Group 1), residents between 4 and 5 years (Group 2), and endourologist (Group 3). The 2–3-year resident started to perform PCNL for the first time, while the 4–5-year resident started to perform Supine PCNL for the first time while previously performing prone PCNL. Results: Access, fluoroscopy, and operation time were higher in Group 1, shorter in Group 2, and shortest in Group 3 (p < 0.001). Postoperative length of stay and the need for additional treatment were found to be shorter (p < 0.001), and the stone-free rate (SFR) increased (p < 0.001) from Group 1 to Group 3. The highest complication rates were observed in Group 1 (p = 0.002). SFR rate increased as the number of cases increased in Group 1 patients. Success was stable after 46–60 cases in terms of SFR. In Group 2, the SFR rate was stable after 31–45. cases. The most complications were observed in Group 1 and the least in Group 3. Conclusion: In 2-3-year residents, access time and fluoroscopy time decrease with experience. In 4-5-year residents, due to their expertise in prone PCNL, the operation time and fluoroscopy time decrease with the number of cases performed. SFR is higher after 46–60 cases for 2-3-year residents and 31–45 cases for 4-5-year residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To report our initial experience of one-stage flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy(FURL) with 11/13Fr suctioning ureteral access sheath(UAS) and 8.55Fr single-use digital flexible ureteroscope(SDFU) in upper ureteral or renal calculi. Materials and methods: We retrospectively collected the clinical data of 900 adult patients with upper ureteral or renal calculi treated by FURL with 11/13Fr suctioning UAS and 8.55Fr SDFU from January 2022 to April 2024. Demographics, peri- and postoperative outcomes were assessed. Results: In all, 40 of 940 cases(4.26%) failed to introduce UAS and required second-stage FURL because of ureterostenosis and were excluded. Mean stones size of the remaining 900 eligible cases was 1.68 ± 0.58 cm in greatest diameter. There were 228 cases of upper ureteral stone, 456 cases of renal stone and 216 cases of concomitant ureteral and renal calculi. The mean operation time was 52.20 ± 20.21 min and the postoperative hospital stay was 2.87 ± 1.37 days. The stone-free rate of 1 month postoperatively was 89.56% and only 2.44% of patients with residue underwent additional reoperation. The rate of postoperative fever, postoperative pain needing analgesic and slight ureteral mucosal injury were 5.11%, 8.22% and 7.78%, respectively. None of patient suffered from severe complications, such as sepsis or ureteral perforation. Conclusion: It's practical and suitable for the vast majority of adult patients to undergo FURL in single session with 11/13Fr suctioning UAS without preoperative stenting. FURL with 11/13Fr suctioning UAS and 8.55Fr SDFU is feasible, reliable, safe, and efficient in the management of renal stone and upper ureteral stone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complete removal of renal stones is crucial for optimal patient outcomes, but recent studies have reported residual stones after retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). This study aimed to identify the associated risk factors to improve patient management and treatment selection. Methods: This cohort study was conducted over 18 months at two hospitals and recruited adult patients with renal stones less than 3 cm. Preoperative assessment included medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and radiological imaging. Intraoperative and postoperative data collection and follow-up were conducted to evaluate surgical success and potential complications. Results: A total of 100 patients were included, with a mean age of 45.3 ± 10.7 years and a mean BMI of 26.2 ± 1.4 kg/m2. Approximately 19% of the patients had residual stones after the RIRS procedure. The RUSS score showed good diagnostic performance with an AUC of 0.843, and the optimal cut point was ⩾2.0 with a sensitivity of 52.6% and specificity of 95.1%. Independent predictors of residual stones were multiple sites (OR = 24.98; p = 0.002), multiple stones (OR = 13.62, p = 0.002), stone size of 21–30 mm (OR = 4.91, p = 0.038), lower calyx site (OR = 4.85, p = 0.033), and surgeon experience of fewer than 50 cases (OR = 6.82, p = 0.020), Conclusions: This study identifies several factors associated with residual stones after RIRS for renal stones, including stone size, location, number, and surgeon experience. The study suggests that the RUSS score can be used as a reliable tool for predicting the likelihood of residual stones, which can help clinicians in patient selection and treatment planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complex renal calculi, characterized by their size, location, and composition, pose a significant challenge to urologists due to the potential for complications and the difficulty in achieving complete stone clearance. Conventional percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) are two established techniques for managing these complex renal calculi. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives are to compare the effectiveness, safety, and outcomes of PCNL versus ECIRS in managing complex renal calculi in a cohort of 60 cases treated at GMKMCH-Salem. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 60 patients with complex renal calculi who underwent either conventional PCNL or ECIRS during a specified period at GMKMCH-Salem. Patient demographics, stone characteristics, procedural details, intraoperative and post-operative parameters, and complications were analyzed and compared between the two treatment groups. Results: The study found that both PCNL and ECIRS techniques were effective in treating complex renal calculi. However, significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of outcomes. The ECIRS technique exhibited superior outcomes with higher stone clearance rates (P<0.001), shorter operative times (P<0.05), and reduced hospital stays (P<0.05) compared to conventional PCNL. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that ECIRS is a promising alternative to conventional PCNL in the management of complex renal calculi. The ECIRS technique yielded higher stone clearance rates, shorter operative times, and reduced hospital stays, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing health-care costs. Although our findings show favorable results for ECIRS, the decision between conventional PCNL and ECIRS should be based on individual patient characteristics, surgeon expertise, and resource availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low‐oxalate diets are useful for treating hyperoxaluria in nephrolithiasis patients. This study was unique in examining how a low‐oxalate diet in addition to a standard diet affected hyperoxaluria and renal function tests in nephrolithiasis patients. The effects of a low‐oxalate diet were analyzed by different biochemical tests, that is, anthropometric measurements, blood oxalate test, renal function test, electrolyte profile test, and 24 h urine analysis. For this purpose, 112 patients were divided into 2 groups: Group T1 (Conventional diet) and Group T2 (Low‐Oxalate diet) for 8 weeks. Each group was tested at the initiation and end of the study. Using SPSS, the obtained data from each parameter were statistically analyzed. The results showed that a low‐oxalate diet had a positive effect on patients suffering from nephrolithiasis. Furthermore, after treatment, anthropometric measurement weight (kg) among the control group (T1) was 100.45 ± 5.65 and the treatment group (T2) was 79.71 ± 9.48 kg. The effect of low‐oxalate diet on renal function test: creatinine (g/d) among T1 was 2.08 ± 0.86 and T2 was 1.17 ± 0.13, uric acid(mg/d) among T1 was 437.04 ± 24.20 and T2 was 364.61 ± 35.99, urinary oxalate (mg/d) among T1 was 76.84 ± 10.33 and T2 was 39.24 ± 1.51, respectively. Sodium (mEq/d) among T1 was 156.72 ± 6.37 and T2 was 159.84 ± 6.31, potassium (mEq/d) among T1 was 69.91 ± 15.37 and T2 was 89.21 ± 6.31, phosphorus (g/d) among T1 was 0.96 ± 0.07 and T2 was 0.34 ± 0.27, respectively. This study demonstrated that nephrolithiasis patients with hyperoxaluria benefit from low‐oxalate diets. Hyperoxaluria patients should eat a low‐oxalate diet to use oxalate without affecting metabolism and eliminate it from the kidney without stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of flexible ureteroscopy using a tip-flexible pressure-controlling ureteral access sheath (TFPC-UAS) for renal stones in children. Methods: Consecutive patients aged 5–18 years with renal stones of diameter 1–3 cm were enrolled between January 2022 and November 2023 at Ganzhou People's Hospital. The patients were treated with flexible ureteroscopy using the TFPC-UAS. The renal pelvic pressure (RPP) parameters were set as follows: control value at −10 mm Hg to 5 mm Hg, warning value at 20 mm Hg, and limit value at 30 mm Hg. The infusion flow rate was set to 100–120 mL/min. A holmium laser (276 μm) was used to fragment the stone at 2.0–2.5 J/pulse with a frequency of 20–30 pulses/s. The cases were analyzed for RPP, operative time, stone-free rate, and complications. Results: A total of 21 consecutive patients were included. Two patients were switched to percutaneous nephrolithotomy owing to sheath placement failure. The RPP was −4.6 ± 2.1 mm Hg. The mean operative time was 56.5 ± 17.1 min. The postoperative hospitalization time was 1.5 ± 0.3 days. The stone-free rates at 1 day and 1 month after surgery were 81.0% and 85.7%, respectively. Residual stones in 2 patients were cleared after extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy. Three cases of Clavien I complications and one case of Clavien II complications occurred. No major complications (Clavien grade III–V) were observed. Conclusions: Flexible ureteroscopy with a TFPC-UAS is safe and effective for renal stones in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy (s-PCNL) offers great benefits from urological and anaesthetic points of view. We present the first evaluation of the outcomes of s-PCNL in Malaysia. Our aim was to explore the safety and efficacy of s-PCNL. Methods: Institutional review board approval was obtained from the National Medical Research Register (NMRR ID-21002225-WLP). We retrospectively reviewed 115 patients with renal pelvis stones who underwent single renal access during s-PCNL between November 2020 and May 2023. Patients who underwent simultaneous ipsilateral or contralateral endourological procedures were included. The data were analysed to determine stone-free rates (SFR), major complication rates, blood transfusion rates, operative times and lengths of hospital stay (LOS). Results: The SFR was higher for the single middle calyceal renal access (MCA) group than for the lower calyceal renal access (LCA) or upper calyceal renal access (UCA) groups (OR: 1.76; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.63, 4.92). In total, 0, 1 and 2 patients had major complications in the UCA, MCA and LCA groups, respectively (P = 0.453). One of the 115 patients (0.9%) needed blood transfusion. Subgroup analysis revealed mean operative times of 76.3 min and 78.6 min for patients who underwent sole s-PCNL (PCNL-only group) and those who had simultaneous ipsilateral and contralateral endourological procedures (PCNL-plus group), respectively (P = 0.786). The overall mean LOS was 2.9 days. Conclusion: s-PCNL is a safe and effective alternative treatment for renal stones. We would recommend s-PCNL for patients who require an ipsilateral/contralateral endourological procedure (URS/RIRS) because it is time-efficient. All renal accesses are safe. Single MCA is recommended for complete stone clearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a commonly used non-invasive treatment modality for urolithiasis. While fluoroscopy (FS)-guided ESWL has been the traditional approach, the use of ultrasound (USG) guidance has gained traction due to its potential benefits in terms of reduced radiation exposure and improved stone targeting. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives are to study the safety and efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy in the management of renal stones, outcomes of overall stone-free rate (SFR), pain intensity, urinary biochemical variables, mean hospital stay, quality of life, and adverse events. Materials and Methods: Patient data from the period of May 2022 to April 2023 were reviewed, including 20 patients who underwent USG-guided ESWL and 20 patients who underwent FS-guided ESWL. Results: Our analysis revealed that the USG-guided ESWL group demonstrated comparable stone fragmentation rates and SFR (P-value) when compared to the FS-guided group. Moreover, radiation exposure was significantly reduced in the USG-guided ESWL group, with a mean total FS time of [55] s compared to [3005] s in the FS-guided group. No significant differences were observed in terms of complications between the two groups. Conclusion: This study highlights the successful implementation of USG-guided ESWL in our institution's experience, showing comparable outcomes in terms of stone fragmentation rates and SFR, while significantly reducing radiation exposure, also can be considered an effective and safe alternative for the treatment of urolithiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of the study is to evaluate the three stone scoring systems (S.T.O.N.E nephrolithometry scoring system (STONE), Guy's stone score (GSS) and Seoul National University Renal Stone Complexity (S-ReSC)) for the stone-free rate (SFR) of mini-PCNL. We retrospectively analyzed 72 patients who received mini-PCNL from February 2018 to October 2020. The SFR, complication rates, hospitalization days and recurrence rates were analyzed using three stone scoring systems. The result showed statistical significance in the association between scoring system and stone-free (STONE: OR 95%CI 0.409 (0.221–0.759), p = 0.0045; S-ReSC OR 95%CI 0.633 (0.401–0.999), p = 0.0497), but not GSS (OR 95%CI 0.776 (0.397–1.516), p = 0.4581). After adjusting the potential confounding factors, the area under curve (AUC) of STONE, GSS, and S-ReSC was 0.86, 0.78, and 0.81, respectively, and Akaike information criterion (AIC) of STONE, GSS, and S-ReSC was 64.65, 74.89, and 69.92, respectively. The accuracy rate of STONE, GSS, and S-ReSC was 0.81, 0.75, and 0.79, respectively. There was no statistically difference of predicting stone recurrence (p = 0.46, 0.53, 0.86), complications (p = 0.74, 0.51, 0.16) and hospitalization days (p = 0.77, 0.86, 0.87) in STONE, GSS, and S-ReSC, respectively. In conclusion, both the STONE and S-ReSC stone scoring systems are viable for predicting the SFR following mini-PCNL, especially after variable adjustment with the STONE system demonstrating superiority over S-ReSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To correlate the grades of hydronephrosis and the detection of urinary stones by ultrasound imaging. Study Design: Cross-sectional, Retrospective study. Setting: Watim General Hospital, Rawat. Period: Jan 1, 2023 and Mar 31, 2023. Material & Methods: All patients on whom a renal sonogram showed hydronephrosis and nephrolithiasis between Jan-Mar 2023 > 18 years of age and < 70 years of age were included. The data were obtained retrospectively from the ultrasound department records. All patients were scanned while lying flat on their backs. Data regarding hydronephrosis grades and the presence of nephrolithiasis was obtained. Results: There were 248 individuals with hydronephrosis due to nephrolithiasis whose ultrasounds were included in this investigation. All patients had urinary stones and as hydronephrosis progressed from grade 1 to 3, the detection rate of stones increased, before declining in grade 4. Patients with grade 3 hydronephrosis had four times the risk of having urinary stones as grade 4 patients (Odds Ratio = 5.675, 95% Confidence Interval [Cl]=3.345-4.648). Conclusion: The sensitivity of sonography to identify grades of hydronephrosis and identify their underlying causes is of diagnostic importance. Hydronephrosis is often brought on by kidney stones or ureteric calculi, and a higher grade should raise clinical suspicion for the presence of renal calculi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: National guidelines recommend periprocedural antibiotics before percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), yet it is not clear which is superior. We conducted a randomized trial to compare two guideline-recommended antibiotics: ciprofloxacin (cipro) vs cefazolin, on PCNL outcomes, focusing on the development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria. Methods: Adult patients who were not considered high risk for surgical or infectious complications and undergoing PCNL were randomized to receive either cipro or cefazolin perioperatively. All had negative preoperative urine cultures. Demographic and perioperative data were collected, including SIRS criteria, intraoperative urine culture, duration of hospitalization, and need for intensive care. SIRS is defined by ≥2 of the following: body temperature <96.8°F or >100.4°F, heart rate >90 bpm, respiratory rate >20 per minute, and white blood cell count <4000 or >12,000 cells/mm3. Results: One hundred forty-seven patients were enrolled and randomized (79 cefazolin and 68 cipro). All preoperative characteristics were similar (p > 0.05), except for mean age, which was higher in the cipro group (64 vs 57 years, p = 0.03). Intra- and postoperative findings were similar, with no difference between groups (p > 0.05), except a longer mean hospital stay in the cefazolin group (2 hours longer, p = 0.02). There was no difference between SIRS episodes in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Conclusions: Despite the relatively broader coverage for urinary tract pathogens with ciprofloxacin, this prospective randomized trial did not show superiority over cefazolin. Our findings therefore support two appropriate options for perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis in patients undergoing PCNL who are nonhigh risk for infectious complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Three-Dimensional (3D) could help for planning and creating an optimal access route in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedure by achieving a more accurate approach to the renal collecting system and stone treatment while decreasing the risk of complications. The aim of our study is to compare the efficacy of 3D imaging technique with standard fluoroscopy method as a guiding tool for renal stone location while striving to reduce intra-operative X-ray exposure in the former method. Materials and Methods: This randomised clinical trial enrolled 48 PCNL candidates who were referred to Sina Hospital (Tehran, Iran). Participants were divided into two equal groups of intervention (3D virtual reconstruction) and control, using block randomization method. Age, sex, stone type and location, X-ray exposure during the procedure, stone access accuracy rate and the necessity of blood transfusion during surgery were taken into account. Results: The Mean age of participants (n = 48) was 46.4 ± 4.8 years, 34 (70.8%) were male, 27 (56.3%) had partial staghorn stones and all participants had stones within the lower calyx. The radiation exposure time, stone access time and stone size were 2.99 ± 1.81 seconds, 272.3 ± 108.9 seconds and 23.06 ± 2.28 mm, respectively. In the intervention group, the accuracy rate for lower calyceal stone access was 91.5%. Also, X-ray exposure and time to stone access were significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the controls (P < 0.001). Conclusion: We concluded that the utilization of 3D technology in the pre-operative location of renal calculi in PCNL candidates may result in a significant improvement in the accuracy and time to access the renal calculi, as well as reduction in X-ray exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the clinical value of color Doppler ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in avoiding bleeding caused by punctured blood vessels. Herein, we retrospectively included patients who underwent color Doppler ultrasound-guided PCNL or PCNL using the conventional channel technique from August 2018 to August 2022. The clinical characteristics of patients during surgery, complications, and hospital stay were recorded and compared. Overall, 228 patients were enrolled, with 126 patients (age, 47.6 ± 13.2 years; men: 57.14%) in the color Doppler ultrasound-guided PCNL group and 102 patients (age, 46.6 ± 12.3 years) in the B-mode ultrasound-guided puncture group. The total operation time (63.5 ± 15.5 vs. 61.3 ± 16.3 min, p = .5236) and stone clearance rate (86.50% vs. 83.33%, p = .7139) were similar between the two groups. However, the puncture time for the color Doppler ultrasound-guided PCNL group was longer than that for the B-mode ultrasound-guided puncture group (5.1 ± 2.3 vs. 2.6 ± 1.6 min, p = .0019). Moreover, the length of postoperative hospital stay in the color Doppler ultrasound-guided PCNL group reduced significantly by ~1 day compared with that in the B-mode ultrasound-guided puncture group (4.5 ± 1.6 vs. 5.6 ± 2.1 days, p = .0087). The blood transfusion rate (1.58% vs. 4.9%, p = .0399), sedation-related adverse event rate (0.79% vs. 2.9%, p = .0332), perineal hematoma incidence (0% vs. 2.94%, p < .0001), and serum decreased hemoglobin levels (12.2 ± 9.7 vs. 23.5 ± 10.1 g/L, p < .001) after color Doppler ultrasound-guided PCNL were significantly lower than those after B-mode ultrasound-guided puncture. The stone clearance rate was similar between the two groups, with a similar operation time. Moreover, color Doppler ultrasound-guided PCNL shortened the postoperative hospital stay and decreased Hb levels, blood transfusion rate, and perineal hematoma incidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The association between dietary magnesium intake (DMI) and kidney stone (KS) disease is not clear. AIM: To determine the association between DMI and prevalent KS disease defined as self-report of any previous episode of KS. METHODS: We examined The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018 and used logistic regression analyses adjusting for demographics, BMI, histories of hypertension, diabetes, thiazide use, cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, relevant dietary and supplemental intakes to determine the independent association between DMI and prevalent KS disease. RESULTS: A total of 19,271 participants were eligible for the final analysis, including 1878 prevalent KS formers. Mean DMI among stone formers was 295.4 mg/day, as compared to 309.6 mg/day among non-stone formers (p=0.02). Higher DMI was strongly associated with lower odds of prevalent KS disease in univariate analysis regardless of when DMI was analyzed as a continuous variable (OR=0.94, 95% CI: 0.89-0.99, p=0.02) or when the extreme quartiles of DMI were compared (OR=0.74, 95% CI: 0.60-0.92, p=0.007). In the multivariable-adjusted regression analysis, those in the highest quartile of DMI compared to the lowest quartile (=379 mg vs. <205 mg) had significantly reduced odds of prevalent KS (OR=0.70, 95% CI: 0.52-0.93, p=0.01). When DMI was analyzed as a continuous variable, there was a trend toward reduced odds of prevalent KS disease with higher DMI (OR=0.92 per 100 mg, 95% CI: 0.84-1.01, p=0.07). CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that higher DMI is associated with a reduced risk of KS disease. Future prospective studies are needed to clarify the causal relationship between DMI and KS disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Although it is a valuable option for children with drug-resistant epilepsy, ketogenic diet (KD) therapy is associated with several side effects. The frequency of kidney stones and risk factors for their development in epileptic children receiving KD is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and risk factors for the development of renal stones in children receiving KD therapy. Methods A total of 95 patients receiving KD were identified. Of these, seven patients were excluded from the study due to the duration of KD being less than 12 months. The remaining 88 children were enrolled in the study. Results Renal stones were detected in 15 patients (17%), of which 12 (73.3%) received potassium citrate treatment. Two (13.3%) patients needed lithotripsy despite receiving potassium citrate treatment, and one of these, who received potassium citrate treatment for 5 months, developed acute vesicourethral reflux and underwent surgery. No patient discontinued KD due to renal stone development. The serum uric acid concentrations and urine calcium/creatinine ratio did not change significantly over the 24-month follow-up period. Age, gender, etiology, age at seizure onset, duration of KD, mobility status, use of topiramate or zonisamide, and the number of antiepileptic drugs used were not significantly different between patients with and without kidney stones. Conclusion Renal stone appears to be a common adverse effect of KD therapy. Although adequate hydration and potassium citrate treatment are effective in most patients, lithotripsy and surgery may be required in a minority of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective: The study's primary objective was to compare the laser efficiency and clinical outcomes of two widely used systems, the holmium MOSES laser and the thulium fiber laser (TFL), in managing kidney stones. The secondary outcomes were to evaluate the impact of stone composition on laser efficacy. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent flexible ureteroscopy (f-URS) for solitary renal calculi between December 2020 and August 2022 at our institution and had a 3-month postoperative CT scan. Patient demographics and stone parameters were recorded, including stone site, size, volume, and density. Intraoperative data were collected and analyzed, including total operative time, ureteroscopy time, lasing time, technique, total energy delivered, and stone composition. All patients underwent a CT scan at 3 months follow-up. We recorded the presence of residual stones and the percentage of stone volume reduction. Ablation efficiency was calculated by dividing the energy utilized (J) by the stone volume (mm3). The ablation speed was calculated by dividing the stone volume (mm3) by the lasing time (seconds). Patients with a stone size <4 mm were deemed stone-free. Results: The MOSES and TFL groups comprised 62 and 49 patients, respectively. There were no significant differences between groups for baseline patient demographics or stone characteristics. The two modalities had comparable total energy, laser time, efficacy, and ablation speeds. No differences were detected in stone-free rates or complications between both groups. When dealing with calcium phosphate stones, we observed that the lasing time was significantly shorter with MOSES than TFL (7.95 vs 10.85 minutes, respectively [p = 0.01]). Conclusions: MOSES and TFL laser systems had comparable efficacy for lithotripsy of renal calculi during f-URS; however, calcium phosphate stones had a longer lasing time with TFL. REB Number: 100210. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An accurate estimation of the stone burden is the key factor for predicting retrograde intra-renal surgical outcomes. Volumetric calculations better stratify stone burden than linear measurements. We developed a free software to assess the stone volume and estimate the lithotrity duration according to 3D-segmented stone volumes, namely the Kidney Stone Calculator (KSC). The present study aimed to validate the KSC's reproducibility in clinical cases evaluating its inter-observer and intra-observer correlations. Methods: Fifty patients that harbored renal stones were retrospectively selected from a prospective cohort. For each patient, three urologists with different experience levels in stone management made five measurements of the stone volume on non-contrast-enhanced computed tomography (NCCT) images using the KSC. Results: the overall inter-observer correlation (Kendall's concordance coefficient) was 0.99 (p < 0.0001). All three paired analyses of the inter-observer reproducibility were superior to 0.8. The intra-observer variation coefficients varied from 4% to 6%, and Kendall's intra-observer concordance coefficient was found to be superior to 0.98 (p < 0.0001) for each participant. Subgroup analyses showed that the segmentation of complex stones seems to be less reproductible. Conclusions: The Kidney Stone Calculator is a reliable tool for the stone burden estimation. Its extension for calculating the lithotrity duration is of major interest and could help the practitioner in surgical planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ultrasound is widely used to detect renal stones. A no-contrast CT scan is the most accurate modality for stone examination. Considering that determining the size of a stone is the main criterion in treatment planning, the purpose of this study was to compare ultrasound and non-contrast CT scans in determining renal stone size. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 140 patients were assessed from June to October 2017 at Namazi Hospital of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. A radiologist compared the CT scans of patients with their ultrasound images. The ultrasound and CT scan results in terms of stone size were assessed. The correlation rate of stone size in ultrasound and CT scans in different subgroups was assessed by categorizing the stone size into three subgroups. The impact of stone location and the CT window on measuring stone size were evaluated. Results: The mean stone size measured by ultrasound and CT scan was 11.23±5.26 and 9.48±4.7mm, respectively, which was significantly different. The highest rate of correlation was observed in the stones>10mm (81%) and then in 5-10mm (69.3%). The lowest agreement was observed in stones <5mm (37.5%). Conclusion: Using ultrasonography as a screening test or a primary test for detecting the renal stones is recommended. However, considering the importance of a precise assessment of stone size in choosing the treatment method and the limitations of sonography in the evaluation of small stones, a CT scan should be considered as a standard diagnostic tool if there is no contraindication. In CT images, the application of BW might underestimate the stone size in comparison to SW. Considering the results of previous studies, it is better to use magnified BW to assess the stone size on CT scan images. Although the axial view in a CT scan is more routine, for measuring the stone size it is better to use coronal or sagittal views together with axial views. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We evaluated the baseline characteristics, and risk factors of renal stone recurrence among Saudi Arabian patients after successful primary stone treatment. Materials and methods: In this cross-sectional comparative study, we reviewed the medical records of patients who presented consecutively with a first renal stone episode from 2015 to 2021 and were followed-up by mail questionnaire, telephone interviews, and/or outpatient clinic visit. We included patients who achieved stone-free status after primary treatment. Patients were divided into two groups: group I (patients with first episode renal stone) and group II (patients who developed renal stone recurrence). The study outcomes were to compare the demographics of both groups and to evaluate the risk factors of renal stone recurrence after successful primary treatment. We used Student's t-test, Mann Whitney test or chi-square (χ2) to compare variables between groups. Cox regression analyses were used to examine the predictors. Results: We investigated 1260 participants (820 males and 440 females). Of this number, 877 (69.6%) didn't develop renal stone recurrence and 383 (30.4%) had recurrence. Primary treatments were percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), surgery and medical treatment in 22.5%, 34.7%, 26.5%, 10.3%, and 6%, respectively. After primary treatment, 970 (77%) and 1011 (80.2%) of patients didn't have either stone chemical analysis or metabolic work-up, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male gender (OR: 1.686; 95% CI, 1.216-2.337), hypertension (OR: 2.342; 95% CI, 1.439-3.812), primary hyperparathyroidism (OR: 2.806; 95% CI, 1.510-5.215), low fluid intake (OR: 28.398; 95% CI, 18.158-44.403) and high daily protein intake (OR: 10.058; 95% CI, 6.400-15.807) were predictors of renal stone recurrence. Conclusions: Male gender, hypertension, primary hyperparathyroidism, low fluid intake and high daily protein intake increase the risk of renal stone recurrence among Saudi Arabian patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) scan has been proposed as an effective modality for determining the chemical composition of renal stone subtypes. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of DECT in the identification of renal stone type and composition versus biochemical analysis as the gold standard. Materials and Methods: The type of 146 renal stones, removed frompatients by surgery, was determined in amedical laboratory. The stones were then inserted into the kidney of an anthropomorphic Rando phantom, and DECT scans were acquired. The stone type, specified by the scanner software, was compared with the results of biochemical analysis as the gold standard. Results: The DECT scans showed acceptable accuracy in identifying the chemical composition of renal stone subtypes. Based on the comparison of biochemical analysis and DECT results, the accuracy values for cystine, uric acid, and calcium-oxalate stones were 97%, 100%, and 97%, respectively. Conclusion: Based on the present results, DECT could detect pure uric acid, cystine, and calcium-oxalate stone types with high sensitivity. However, formixed stones, the stone type, directly identified by DECT scan, was not reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urolithiasis is the most common benign urological health condition. It has contributed sizeable burden of morbidity, disability, and medical health expenditure worldwide. There is limited high level of evidence on the efficacy and safety of treatment options of large renal stones. This network meta-analysis has examined the effectiveness and safety of various large renal stone management strategies. Systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) study design was employed to summarize comparative randomized controlled trials on humans with a diagnosis of renal stone larger than or equal to 2 cm in size. Our searching strategy was based on the Population, Interventions, Comparison, Outcomes, and Study (PICOS) approach. Medline via PubMed, Embase, Google scholar, SCOPUS, Science Direct, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception to March 2023 to find eligible articles. Data extraction, screening, selection and risk of bias assessment were conducted by two independent reviewers. We found ten randomised control trials which consists 2917 patients, nine of them were labeled as low risk and one article was high risk. This network meta-analysis found that SFR was 86% (95% CI 84–88%) for Mini-PCNL, 86% (95% CI 84–88%) for standard PCNL, 79% (95% CI:73–86%) for RIRS, and 67% (95%CI:49–81 for staged URS for management of large renal stone. Overall complication rate was 32% (95% CI 27–38%) for standard PCNL, 16% (95% CI 12–21%) for Mini-PCNL, and 11% (95% CI 7–16%) for RIRS. Mini-PCNL (RR = 1.14 (95% CI 1.01–1.27) and PCNL (RR = 1.13 (95% CI 1.01–1.27)) were statistically associated with a higher SFR compared to RIRS. The pooled mean hospital stays were 1.56 days (95% CI 0.93–2.19) for RIRS, 2.96 days (95% CI 1.78–4.14) for Mini-PCNL, 3.9 days (95% CI 2.9–4.83) for standard PCNL, and 3.66 (95% CI 1.13–6.2) for staged URS. Mini-PCNL and standard PCNL were the most effective treatment options with significant morbidity and length of hospital stay, while RIRS was the safest management option with acceptable SFR, low morbidity, and short hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of the study was to provide data related to endoscopic combined intra-renal surgery learning curve using minimally invasive techniques with vacuum-assisted devices. Minimal data exist on the learning curve for these techniques. Methods: We conducted a prospective study monitoring the training of a mentored surgeon learning ECIRS with vacuum assistance. We use varied parameters for improvements. After collection of peri-operative data, tendency lines and CUSUM analysis were used to investigate the learning curves. Results: 111 patients have been included. Guy's Stone Score 3 and 4 stones 51.3% of all cases. The mostly used percutaneous sheath was 16 Fr (87.3%). SFR was 78.4%. 52.3% patients were tubeless, and 38.7% achieved trifecta. High-degree complication rate was 3.6%. Operative time improved after 72 cases. We observed a decrease of complications throughout the case series, with improvement after 17 cases. In terms of trifecta, proficiency was reached after 53 cases. Proficiency seems achievable in a limited number of procedures, but results did not plateau. Higher number of cases might be necessary for excellence. Discussion: A surgeon learning ECIRS with vacuum assistance can obtain proficiency in 17–50 cases. The number of procedures required for excellence remains unclear. Exclusion of more complex cases might positively affect the training, reducing unnecessary complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lower pole renal stones present a significant challenge in urologic practice due to difficulty in accessing the calyx and eliminating fragments. Management options for these stones include watchful waiting for asymptomatic stones, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), ureterorenoscopy (URS), and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Mini-PCNL is a newer modification of conventional PCNL. The study aimed to assess the feasibility of mini-PCNL in treating lower pole renal stones equal to or less than 20mm that were not responsive to ESWL therapy. We included 42 patients (24 male and 18 female) with a mean age of 40±2.3 who underwent mini-PCNL at a single urology center between June 2020 and July 2022 and assessed operative and postoperative outcomes. The mean total operative time was 47±3.11 minutes, ranging from 40 to 60 minutes. The stone-free rate was 90%, and the overall complication rate was 26%, which included minor bleeding (5%), hematuria (7%), pain (12%), and fever (2%). The mean hospital stay was 80±3.34 hours (3-4 days). Our findings suggest that mini-PCNL is an effective treatment option for lower pole renal stones that are not responsive to ESWL therapy. The immediate stone-free rate was high, with minimum non-serious complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is unknown for subjects with both gallstones and renal stones, nor is it known whether there is a difference in the risk between gallstones and renal stones. This study aimed to determine the risk relationship between gallstones and renal stones and the risk of ASCVD in a male population. Methods: We recruited 6371 eligible males aged 40 to 79 years old who did not have a documented ASCVD history. The ten-year ASCVD risk was calculated using the pooled cohort equations developed by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA). The ASCVD risk score was classified as a low risk (<7.5%), an intermediate risk (7.5% to 19.9%), or a high risk (≥20%). The diagnosis of gallstones and renal stones was established based on the results of abdominal sonography. Results: Both gallstones and renal stones were associated with a high level of intermediate risk (OR = 3.21, 95% CI = 1.89–5.49, p < 0.001) and high risk (OR = 3.01, 95% CI = 1.48–6.12, p < 0.001), compared to individuals with no stones at all, after adjusting for the effects of other clinical variables. The possession of gallstones was associated with a higher level of high ASCVD risk (OR = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.31–2.59, p < 0.05) than that of renal stones. Conclusions: The ASCVD risk was higher for males with gallstones than for those with renal stones. Men with both types of stones faced a risk of ASCVD that was three times higher than that of men without stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for renal and proximal ureteral stone treatment among the elder population is considered challenging due to the complication risk associated with comorbidity and lower functional reserve. Patients older and younger than 60 years old were compared for efficacy and safety in following PCNL procedures. Consecutive patients who underwent PCNL from 2019-2021 in a single center were divided into patients aged at least 60 years (group I) and patients aged under 60 years (group II). Single stage fluoroscopic-guided PCNL were used for the entire study population. Patients' habitus, stone-related, and operative characteristics were compared. The two groups' PCNL success and complication rates were evaluated. A total of 245 patients, comprising 65 in group I and 180 in group II, were included for analysis. Diabetes mellitus prevalence was higher in group I (30.8% vs 18.9%). However, the study population did not show a significant difference in regard to comorbidity. Operative time, success rate (80% vs 74.4%), and complication rate (16.9% vs 15.6%) did not statistically differ (p>0.05). Transfusion rate was higher among patients aged at least 60 years (p=0.018). Based on the multivariate analysis, stones located in the renal pelvis was the factor which contributed to the success rate. In conclusion, percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a safe and effective procedure for treating renal and proximal ureteral stones in the older population. Blood transfusions are more frequently given, in part, due to bleeding risk among older patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Shockwave lithotripsy is a painful procedure and requires adequate analgesia. This study aimed to determine the effect of effective pain management in extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy on objective parameters such as radiation dose and operation time. Material and Method: A total of 202 patients were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups. The first group was administered a triple analgesia combination (hyoscine N-butylbromide, metamizole, pethidine) for adequate pain control. The second group was administered diclofenac sodium alone. Results: There were 100 patients in group 1 and 102 in group 2. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in the duration of treatment, lithotripsy period, frequency of shock waves, and radiation doses used (p<0.05). Conclusion: Effective pain management in ESWL reduces the procedure time, period, and radiation dose, thus increasing the success of the treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is considered a standard treatment for nephrolith or kidney stones measuring less than 20 mm. Anatomical, machine-related, and stone factors play pivotal roles in treatment outcomes, the latter being the leading role. This paper examined the relationship between stone density on native CT scans and ESWL treatment to remove renal stones concerning several treatments. One hundred and twenty patients (64 males and 56 females) were enrolled and completed the study from April 2019 to September 2020. Inclusion criteria were a single renal pelvis stone of 5-20 mm to be treated for the first time in adult patients with no urinary or musculoskeletal anatomical abnormalities. We assessed patients' renal function and obtained stone characteristics using a native CT scan. Patients were then scheduled for ESWL by the same machine and operator under fluoroscopy, with two-week intervals between treatment sessions when more than one treatment session was required. Before each new session, a new KUB-US was performed to reevaluate the stone. One hundred and twenty patient records were analyzed, 64 (53.3%) males and 56 (46.7%) females, with a mean age of 38.6 years and a mean stone size of 13.15 mm. Treatment with ESWL cleared stones in 76 (63.3%) patients, while 44 (36.7%) failed the treatment. The mean stone density in patients whose stones were cleared was significantly lower (661 vs. 1001) (P<0.001). Estimating renal calculus (or kidney stone) density on a native CT scan might help prognosticate ESWL treatment outcomes regarding stone clearance rates and the number of sessions required to clear a stone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to describe a novel double-sheath vacuum suction minimally invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL) to overcome the deficiencies of the conventional procedure. Patients and Methods: Between March 2019 and December 2019, 65 patients (37 males and 28 females) with a mean age of 41 years (range 23–69) underwent mini-PCNL with double-sheath vacuum suction. It consisted of an F20 Y-shaped sheath as an outer sheath and an F16 Y-shaped sheath as an inner sheath, in which the inner sheath was longer than the outer sheath. The oblique arm of the outer sheath and the inner sheath was connected to the perfusion inflow and the vacuum suction, respectively. A 550-μm holmium-YAG laser was introduced for stone fragmentation through the working channel of the mini-nephroscope, which was no longer connected to the perfusion fluid. Results: All procedures were successful. Mean operation time was 50.2 min (range 39–83). Mean hemoglobin decrease was 5.2 g/L (range 1.0–15.5), and no patient needed a blood transfusion. One patient (1.5%) with low fever (<38°C) at day 1 had returned to normal at day 2 without administration of antibiotics. There were no Clavien grade 2–4 complications. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 2.4 days (range 2–6). The initial stone-free rate of PCNL was 81.53% (53 of 65 patients). One month after surgery, the final stone-free rate increased to 90.77% (59/65 patients). Conclusions: The double-sheath vacuum suction mini-PCNL is a safe and effective modality for large renal stones, which might increase the efficiency of stone extraction with low intrapelvic pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Urinary system stone diseases are common in our country and in the world. The flexible ureterorenoscope (flex URS) was first described by Marshall in 1964 and took its place in the guidelines as a surgical technique in 1987 with the advancing technology. Its indications are expanding rapidly. In this study, the data of patients who underwent retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in our clinic were evaluated retrospectively. Material and Method: Demographic data, stone sizes, localizations, fluoroscopy duration, stone-free rates and postoperative complications of 106 patients who underwent RIRS in the urology clinic of Süleyman Demirel University Faculty of Medicine (SDU) between March 2017 and January 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. After the procedure, all patients were evaluated with direct urınary system graphy and computer tomography imaging methods 4 weeks later. Results: The median age of 106 patients (66 males, 40 females) who underwent RIRS was 52 (23-73 years) and the mean stone size was calculated as 13.9 (7-19) mm. The mean duration of operation and fluoroscopy were respectively;74 (30-135 minutes is 62 (20-136) seconds. None of the patients had a DJ catheter before the procedure, but a DJ catheter was placed in all patients at the end of the procedure and the catheter was removed under local anesthesia 4 weeks later. A second session was performed in 11 (10.3%) cases due to ureteral stenosis and in 8 (7.5%) cases because of residual stones. calyx, 40 (37.7%) lower calyx, 38 (35.8%) cases were found in the renal pelvis. It was found that 82.1% of our patients were stone-free in the first session. After the second session, the stone-free rate was 92.5%. Conclusion: RIRS is a reliable method in terms of efficacy and complications in stone surgery. It is an important surgical alternative especially in ESWL resistant stones, obese patients with musculoskeletal deformities, solitary kidney stones, pregnancy and bleeding diathesis. Considering the advantages of the technique together with the technological advances, we think that it will be used more actively and become widespread in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gas in the renal excretory system is described as a consequence of recent procedures but it can be a sign of severe conditions such as fistulas or infections; however, gas-containing renal stones are only rarely encountered. Purpose: To describe the association of gas-containing renal stones and urinary tract infection. Material and Methods: We performed a retrospective evaluation of the clinical and imaging findings in a series of six patients with gas-containing renal stones and compared our findings with those of patients with gas-containing renal stones reported in the literature. Urine and stone cultures were used as a diagnostic standard for urinary tract infection. Results: Including the present series, there is a total of 21 patients with gas-containing renal stones in the literature. Based on clinical presentation, urinary tract infection could be suspected in 10 (57%) patients, while urine and/or stone cultures showed infection in 18 of 19 (95%) patients, with only one case with no bacterial growth in both (5%); in the remaining patient the information was not available. Conclusion: Gas-containing renal stones are a rarely reported entity usually diagnosed with computed tomography. They are a radiological sign often associated with urinary tract infection that can also be encountered in patients with non-specific renal symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Management of moderate sized (1-2 cm) lower calyceal kidney stone continues to be an unsettled question. We tried to study the safety and efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for lower calyceal kidney stones 1-2 cm in size. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study which included patients with lower calyceal stones sized 1-2 cm, excluding, those with bilateral or radiolucent kidney stones, bleeding diathesis or pyonephrosis. Selected patients were grouped into Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) as Group A and Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) as Group B with due consideration of their calyceal anatomy. Patients were followed up by abdominal ultrasound and plain X-ray (NCCT if indicated) till stone clearance. Hospital stay, operative duration, outcomes and complications were recorded for each group. Results: The patient characteristics of both groups were comparable except smoking history and median stone size. Among a total of 144 selected patients, 46.6% versus 25 % of the patients included in Group A were smokers or had a recent history of smoking. The median stone size differed significantly between the two groups (13 mm versus 18 mm). The stone free rate (SFR) was 71.7% and 85.7% for Groups A and B respectively (P < 0.05). Among the 43 patients with treatment success from Group A, 11(25.6%) patients needed second and 4(9.3%) patients the third session of ESWL. The complication rate was 10.7% (Clavian Dindo 2) for Group B patients. The mean fluoroscopy time, mean operative time and mean hospital duration were 210.01 seconds versus 133.6 seconds(p=0.011), 42.1 minutes versus 67.5 minutes (p=0.001) and 3.75 hours versus 92.3 hours (p=0.010) respectively in Group A and Group B patients. Conclusion: Comparing with ESWL, PCNL is safe and has better stone free rate with a low retreatment rate for lower calyceal stones sized 10-20 mm. However, PCNL has more operative time, blood transfusion rate and requires longer hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We performed a prospective randomized comparison among Retrograde IntraRenal Surgery (RIRS) and MiniPerc (MP) for stones between 10 and 20 mm to evaluate outcomes with the same laser device: Fiber Dust. Methods: Patients with a single renal stone between 10 and 20 mm were randomized to RIRS (Group A) versus MP (Group B). Exclusion criteria were age < 18 or > 75, presence of acute infection, coagulation impairments, cardiovascular or pulmonary comorbidities. In both groups, the Fiber Dust laser was used. A CT scan after 3 months was performed. A negative CT scan or asymptomatic patients with stone fragments < 3 mm and a negative urinary culture were the criteria to assess the stone-free status. A statistical analysis was carried out to assess success, complication and retreatment rates and need for auxiliary treatments. Results: Between January 2021 and January 2022, 186 patients were enrolled (90 in Group A and 96 in Group B). Mean stone size was 15.8 mm and 14.9 mm in Group A and B, respectively (p = 0.23). The overall stone-free rate (SFR) was 73.3% for Group A and 84.4% for Group B. A higher SFR was reached for upper calyceal stones in Group A (90.4%) lower calyceal stones in Group B (91.6%). Retreatment rate (p = 0.31) and auxiliary procedure rate (p = 0.18) were comparable. Complication rate was 5.5% and 5.2% for Groups A and B, respectively. Conclusions: RIRS and MP are both effective to obtain a postoperative SFR with Fiber Dust. According to the stone position one treatment is superior to the other one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several scoring systems have recently emerged to predict stone-free rates (SFRs) after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). We aimed to compare the most commonly used scoring systems (Guy's stone score, STONE nephrolithometry and Clinical Research Office of the Endourological Society (CROES) nomogram) and assess their predictive accuracy for stone-free rates (SFRs). We also evaluated these scoring systems in their ability to predict perioperative complications, operative time (OT), length of hospital stay (LOH) and postoperative fall in haemoglobin. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 50 consecutive patients with renal calculi who underwent PCNL at our institute for two years. Preoperative CT was done in all the patients. We applied GSS, STONE nephrolithometry and CROES nomogram in all patients. The association of these scoring systems with SFR, perioperative complications, OT, LOH and fall in haemoglobin was evaluated. Results: The overall SFR in our study was 94%. The mean score of GSS, STONE and CROES was 1.66 ± 0.71, 7.08 ± 1.77 and 86.9 ± 4.35. GSS (AUC – 0.86) and S.T.O.N.E nephrolithometry (AUC – 0.837) score effectively predicted SFR, unlike CROES nomogram (AUC – 0.223). The overall complication rate was 54%. GSS (AUC – 0.643) and S.T.O.N.E nephrolithometry (AUC – 0.628) score effectively predicted post-operative complications, unlike CROES nomogram (AUC – 0.308). All three scoring systems (GSS, STONE and CROES) significantly correlated with OT (P < 0.01). None of the scoring systems correlated with LOH. GSS and CROES nomogram showed a weak correlation with fall in Hb. Conclusion: GSS and STONE nephrolithometry effectively predicted SFR and perioperative complication, unlike the CROES nomogram. All scoring systems correlated with OT. Scoring systems did not correlate with LOH. GSS and CROES nomogram weakly correlated with fall in haemoglobin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a reply to a letter by Yu-Hsiang Lin et al. regarding the use of pigtail-suture stents (PSSs) for reducing stent-related symptoms (SRS) after ureteroscopy (URS). The authors acknowledge the limitations of PSSs in draining urine through edematous or tumor obstacles, but highlight their benefits in terms of clinical tolerance and respect for the ureterovesical junction. They also commend the use of PSSs as an intermediate drainage solution after URS, offering better tolerance and pain management compared to double-pigtail stents (DPSs). However, PSSs are not recommended for the drainage of tumors due to potential compression and drainage failure. The authors suggest the development of tumor-specific PSSs for more effective management. [Extracted from the article]

An increasing number of patients are utilizing the internet to answer their medical questions. Given the lack of verified stone treatment resources on the web, we sought to evaluate online interest in kidney stone surgical interventions and assess the quality of the most popular resources on social media. Google Trends was used to evaluate public interest in different kidney stone interventions between March 2016 and February 2021 and reported as search volume index (SVI). Next, the social media analysis tool, BuzzSumo, was used to identify stone surgery content online on the social media platforms, YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, Reddit, and Twitter. To evaluate the quality of health information presented in the online resources, the DISCERN instrument was employed by three individual raters. Ureteroscopy (URS), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) were identified as the top search terms on Google Trends with mean SVIs of 47.75, 42.98, and 45.74, respectively (p = 0.012). On YouTube, URS, PCNL, and SWL had 12,549, 116,222, and 20,717 views, respectively. Nine articles and fifteen videos were chosen for analysis using the DISCERN tool with a mean score of 2.82 and 2.27, respectively, among three independent evaluators. The result of our study suggests that online users are interested in URS but engaged more often with PCNL content on social media platforms. We found that the quality of online resources related to stone surgery highlights the need for involvement of urologists in creation of engaging high-quality content and sharing of accurate information in a social media-driven society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Managing complex and large renal stones with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is difficult because of the likelihood of residual stones and multiple access. Endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) is introduced as an improvement to the procedure to manage stones in one session. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to compare the efficacy and safety between ECIRS and PCNL for treating large and complex renal stones. Materials and Methods: We conducted a systematic review in the Embase, Scopus, and MEDLINE databases based on the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guideline. Eligible studies comprised both randomized and nonrandomized studies comparing ECIRS and PCNL. Results: A total of five nonrandomized studies and one randomized controlled trial were included. The analysis was divided into two subgroups based on the PCNL type, a conventional PCNL (cPCNL) and a mini-PCNL (mPCNL). The one-step stone-free rate (SFR) of ECIRS were significantly higher compared with both the cPCNL (odds ratio [OR] 5.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.54 to 10.4, p < 0.001) and mPCNL (OR 4.27, 95% CI 2.57–7.1, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in mean operative time and hemoglobin drop between both groups (p > 0.05). The use of auxiliary procedures was significantly higher in both PCNL groups compared with the ECIRS group (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.13–0.30, p < 0.001). The overall complication rate of ECIRS was lower compared with PCNL (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.21–0.85, p = 0.02), especially urosepsis, in which the incidence was lower compared with cPCNL (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.02–0.78, p = 0.02), but not mPCNL (p > 0.05). Conclusion: ECIRS is an effective and safe treatment particularly for large and complex nephrolithiasis, with significantly higher one-step SFR, a lower necessity for auxiliary procedures, and a lower complication rate compared with PCNL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the potential of zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) in the assessment of urolithiasis and compare ZTE-MRI with computed tomography (CT) in pediatric patients.This was a single-center, prospective cross-sectional study conducted between April 2023 and December 2023. 23 patients (12 girls, 11 boys; mean age: 12.3, range 1–18) with urinary tract stones detected on non-enhanced abdominal CT were enrolled. The images were evaluated independently by two radiologists for the presence, and number of stones in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. In the second session, two radiologists evaluated whether urinary tract stones could be detected by MRI compared to CT, and the maximum diameter of the stones was measured. The CT and MRI results were compared with the Wilcoxon test. The agreement between the results of the observers was examined using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient.A total of 58 urinary tract stones were detected by CT and 39 of these were detected by MRI. Most of the stones that MRI could not detect were < 5 mm and the detection sensitivity of MRI increased in correlation with stone size (p < 0.001). There was poor intermodality agreement for stones < 5 mm, substantial agreement for stones 5–10 mm, and almost perfect agreement for stones > 10 mm. Interobserver agreement for stone detection on MRI was almost perfect for stones > 10 mm and 5–10 mm and was substantial for stones < 5 mm.ZTE-MRI is a promising modality for detecting urinary stones without radiation exposure in children.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging is a potential method for identifying urinary stones in children and other populations who are particularly sensitive to radiation.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Materials and methods: To evaluate the potential of zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) in the assessment of urolithiasis and compare ZTE-MRI with computed tomography (CT) in pediatric patients.This was a single-center, prospective cross-sectional study conducted between April 2023 and December 2023. 23 patients (12 girls, 11 boys; mean age: 12.3, range 1–18) with urinary tract stones detected on non-enhanced abdominal CT were enrolled. The images were evaluated independently by two radiologists for the presence, and number of stones in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. In the second session, two radiologists evaluated whether urinary tract stones could be detected by MRI compared to CT, and the maximum diameter of the stones was measured. The CT and MRI results were compared with the Wilcoxon test. The agreement between the results of the observers was examined using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient.A total of 58 urinary tract stones were detected by CT and 39 of these were detected by MRI. Most of the stones that MRI could not detect were < 5 mm and the detection sensitivity of MRI increased in correlation with stone size (p < 0.001). There was poor intermodality agreement for stones < 5 mm, substantial agreement for stones 5–10 mm, and almost perfect agreement for stones > 10 mm. Interobserver agreement for stone detection on MRI was almost perfect for stones > 10 mm and 5–10 mm and was substantial for stones < 5 mm.ZTE-MRI is a promising modality for detecting urinary stones without radiation exposure in children.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging is a potential method for identifying urinary stones in children and other populations who are particularly sensitive to radiation.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Results: To evaluate the potential of zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) in the assessment of urolithiasis and compare ZTE-MRI with computed tomography (CT) in pediatric patients.This was a single-center, prospective cross-sectional study conducted between April 2023 and December 2023. 23 patients (12 girls, 11 boys; mean age: 12.3, range 1–18) with urinary tract stones detected on non-enhanced abdominal CT were enrolled. The images were evaluated independently by two radiologists for the presence, and number of stones in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. In the second session, two radiologists evaluated whether urinary tract stones could be detected by MRI compared to CT, and the maximum diameter of the stones was measured. The CT and MRI results were compared with the Wilcoxon test. The agreement between the results of the observers was examined using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient.A total of 58 urinary tract stones were detected by CT and 39 of these were detected by MRI. Most of the stones that MRI could not detect were < 5 mm and the detection sensitivity of MRI increased in correlation with stone size (p < 0.001). There was poor intermodality agreement for stones < 5 mm, substantial agreement for stones 5–10 mm, and almost perfect agreement for stones > 10 mm. Interobserver agreement for stone detection on MRI was almost perfect for stones > 10 mm and 5–10 mm and was substantial for stones < 5 mm.ZTE-MRI is a promising modality for detecting urinary stones without radiation exposure in children.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging is a potential method for identifying urinary stones in children and other populations who are particularly sensitive to radiation.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Conclusion: To evaluate the potential of zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) in the assessment of urolithiasis and compare ZTE-MRI with computed tomography (CT) in pediatric patients.This was a single-center, prospective cross-sectional study conducted between April 2023 and December 2023. 23 patients (12 girls, 11 boys; mean age: 12.3, range 1–18) with urinary tract stones detected on non-enhanced abdominal CT were enrolled. The images were evaluated independently by two radiologists for the presence, and number of stones in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. In the second session, two radiologists evaluated whether urinary tract stones could be detected by MRI compared to CT, and the maximum diameter of the stones was measured. The CT and MRI results were compared with the Wilcoxon test. The agreement between the results of the observers was examined using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient.A total of 58 urinary tract stones were detected by CT and 39 of these were detected by MRI. Most of the stones that MRI could not detect were < 5 mm and the detection sensitivity of MRI increased in correlation with stone size (p < 0.001). There was poor intermodality agreement for stones < 5 mm, substantial agreement for stones 5–10 mm, and almost perfect agreement for stones > 10 mm. Interobserver agreement for stone detection on MRI was almost perfect for stones > 10 mm and 5–10 mm and was substantial for stones < 5 mm.ZTE-MRI is a promising modality for detecting urinary stones without radiation exposure in children.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging is a potential method for identifying urinary stones in children and other populations who are particularly sensitive to radiation.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Clinical relevance statement: To evaluate the potential of zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) in the assessment of urolithiasis and compare ZTE-MRI with computed tomography (CT) in pediatric patients.This was a single-center, prospective cross-sectional study conducted between April 2023 and December 2023. 23 patients (12 girls, 11 boys; mean age: 12.3, range 1–18) with urinary tract stones detected on non-enhanced abdominal CT were enrolled. The images were evaluated independently by two radiologists for the presence, and number of stones in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. In the second session, two radiologists evaluated whether urinary tract stones could be detected by MRI compared to CT, and the maximum diameter of the stones was measured. The CT and MRI results were compared with the Wilcoxon test. The agreement between the results of the observers was examined using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient.A total of 58 urinary tract stones were detected by CT and 39 of these were detected by MRI. Most of the stones that MRI could not detect were < 5 mm and the detection sensitivity of MRI increased in correlation with stone size (p < 0.001). There was poor intermodality agreement for stones < 5 mm, substantial agreement for stones 5–10 mm, and almost perfect agreement for stones > 10 mm. Interobserver agreement for stone detection on MRI was almost perfect for stones > 10 mm and 5–10 mm and was substantial for stones < 5 mm.ZTE-MRI is a promising modality for detecting urinary stones without radiation exposure in children.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging is a potential method for identifying urinary stones in children and other populations who are particularly sensitive to radiation.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Key Points: To evaluate the potential of zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) in the assessment of urolithiasis and compare ZTE-MRI with computed tomography (CT) in pediatric patients.This was a single-center, prospective cross-sectional study conducted between April 2023 and December 2023. 23 patients (12 girls, 11 boys; mean age: 12.3, range 1–18) with urinary tract stones detected on non-enhanced abdominal CT were enrolled. The images were evaluated independently by two radiologists for the presence, and number of stones in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. In the second session, two radiologists evaluated whether urinary tract stones could be detected by MRI compared to CT, and the maximum diameter of the stones was measured. The CT and MRI results were compared with the Wilcoxon test. The agreement between the results of the observers was examined using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient.A total of 58 urinary tract stones were detected by CT and 39 of these were detected by MRI. Most of the stones that MRI could not detect were < 5 mm and the detection sensitivity of MRI increased in correlation with stone size (p < 0.001). There was poor intermodality agreement for stones < 5 mm, substantial agreement for stones 5–10 mm, and almost perfect agreement for stones > 10 mm. Interobserver agreement for stone detection on MRI was almost perfect for stones > 10 mm and 5–10 mm and was substantial for stones < 5 mm.ZTE-MRI is a promising modality for detecting urinary stones without radiation exposure in children.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging is a potential method for identifying urinary stones in children and other populations who are particularly sensitive to radiation.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis.Urinary system stone disease in children is increasing and imaging is needed for managing urolithiasis.Zero-echo time-magnetic resonance imaging (ZTE-MRI) had an accuracy of 81.8% and 93.7% for stones larger than 5 mm and 10 mm, respectively.ZTE-MRI is a potential non-irradiating method for the diagnosis and management of urolithiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: PCNL is the gold standard treatment modality of large and complex kidney stones. We compared the stone free status predicting ability of Guy's stone score and S.T.O.N.E. score system. Objective: To compare to compare between Guy's stone score and S.T.O.N.E score system in predicting stone free rate after PCNL. Patients and Methods: A total number of 40 patients underwent PCNL in the period between December 2021 and May 2022. All cases were evaluated and graded using both Guy score and S.T.O.N.E. score based on preoperative computerized plain ctut. The post operative stone free status was evaluated using post operative plain KUB xray and ctut. Statistical analysis was done to determine relation of the scores with the post-operative stone free status. Also receiver operating characteristics curves (ROC) was drawn and area under the curve was calculated to assess the scores predictability of post-operative stone free status. Results: The overall stone free rate of our study was 80%. Mean age of study population was 43 years (±SD10.60). we found that stone free patients had lower mean Guy score (2.00 vs 3.38) and lower mean S.T.O.N.E. score (7.84 vs 9.75). both scores had statistically significant relation with stone free status the P value was 0.001 for Guy score and 0.022 for S.T.O.N.E. score. The post operative stone free status predictability of both scores was assessed by drawing receiver operating characteristics curves (ROC) and the area under the curve was calculated by ROC curve. When comparing area under the curve for both scores we found no great difference between guy score and S.T.O.N.E. score (0.867 - 95% CI 0.735-1.000) vs (0.760- 95% CI 0.569-0.951). Conclusion: The study shows that both Guy score and S.T.O.N.E. score systems have similar predicting ability of post PCNL stone free status with strong correlation with post operative stone free status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Steinstrasse, is described as array of stone pieces in the ureter following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL). It is well-recognized, transient event. Steinstrasse clears spontaneously, however about 6% require intervention. Spontaneous steinstrasse without prior history of SWL is a rare occurrence and only few case reports are published in literature. Objective of the study was to assess the aetiology and management issues of large spontaneous steinstrasse in our centre. Method: From February 2017 to March 2019, 684 patients underwent SWL for renal or ureteric stones. Twenty-eight patients presented with steinstrasse of which nine patients had no prior history of SWL. Detailed clinical profile and management issues have been discussed. Result: Among the nine patients of spontaneous steinstrasse, there were six males and three females. Mean age of the patients was 39 years (±13 years SD). Bilateral large spontaneous steinstrasse was seen in one out of nine patients. Seven patients had associated renal stones. Five patients presented with obstructive uropathy and three out of them had urosepsis as initial presentation. Ureterolithotomy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy were commonly performed procedures for stone clearance. Metabolic work was done in all cases in follow up period. Three patients had hypercalciuria and hypocitraturia suggestive of renal tubular acidosis. Conclusion: Large spontaneous steinstrasse is uncommon case scenario. It can be subtle in presentation and yet have significant patient consequence in terms of renal function and infection. Prompt management is essential to preclude permanent loss of renal function. Metabolic evaluation is indispensable in such cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyse and report the practice, outcomes and lessons learnt from a global series of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in a paediatric multicentre series. Methods: A retrospective review of anonymized pooled data gathered globally from 8 centres in paediatric patients (≤ 18 years of age) who had renal stones and underwent RIRS from 2015 to 2020 was performed. Patient demographics, perioperative parameters, stone characteristics, complications and stone-free rate (SFR; defined as endoscopically stone free and/or residual fragments < 2 mm on follow up imaging) were analysed. The cohort was stratified into 3 groups by age: < 5 years (Group A), 5–10 years (Group B) and > 10 years (Group C). Overall, post-operative complication rate was 13.7%. Chi-square comparisons were used for categorical variables; analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Kruskal–Wallis tests were used for continuous variables. Results: 314 patients were analysed. The mean age was 9.54 ± 4.76 years. Groups A, B and C had 67 (21.3%), 83 (26.4%) and 164 (52.2%) patients, respectively. Mean stone size was 10.7 ± 4.62 mm. Pre-stenting was performed in 155 (49.4%) of patients, ureteral access sheaths (UAS) was used in 54.5% of patients with majority (71%) utilizing holmium laser for stone fragmentation. All complications were minor (Clavien–Dindo grade 1 and 2). SFR was 75.5%. Conclusions: RIRS is acceptable as a first-line intervention in the paediatric population with reasonable efficacy and low morbidity. Complications are slightly higher in patients < 5 years of age, which should be taken into account while counselling patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of our counter-irrigation technique versus the standard technique in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) by assessment of the stone-free rate after the procedures and its safety in terms of comparing the intraoperative time, Hb deficit, blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, auxiliary procedures, and perioperative complications with that of the standard one. Methods: This prospective randomized trial was conducted on patients with renal stone 2–3 cm in diameter without contraindications to PCNL. The patients were randomized into group A in which the counter-irrigation technique has been performed and group B who were managed by the standard technique. The preoperative characteristics including demographic data and stone parameters were compared between both groups. The primary outcome was the stone-free rate assessed by noncontrast spiral CT after 3 months. The secondary outcome included intraoperative time, Hb deficit, blood transfusion, hospital stay, auxiliary procedure required, and rate of complications. Results: Forty-eight patients were included in this study. Overall, no significant difference was observed between both groups regarding preoperative characteristics, Hb deficit, and complication rate. Operative time was significantly shorter in group B (p = 0.001). None of our patients required blood transfusion. The stone-free rates at 3 months were significantly better in group A (95% for group A and 70% for group B, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Our results indicate that our counter-irrigation technique has lower stone migration with subsequent significantly better stone-free rate versus the standard technique. We can recommend this technique as a potentially valid option for cases with large stone burden when the access to the upper calyx is feasible to minimize significant residual fragments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the clinical manifestations, treatment and prognosis of primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1). Methods Relevant literature review was conducted from Chongqing VIP, CNKI, Wanfang Data, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane databases. Clinical data of 57 patients with PH1 were collected, and the clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment and prognosis were analyzed. Results A total of 35 eligible studies were searched, including 57 patients with PH1, 39 male and 18 female, aged 0.2-57.0 years old, and the age of onset was from date of birth to 42 years old. The specificity of clinical symptoms of 57 patients with PH1 was relatively low, including 41 cases of renal stones, 21 cases of renal calcification and/or calcium deposition, 12 cases of oxalic acid deposition outside the urinary system, 12 cases of lumbago, backache and abdominal pain, and 8 cases of ureteral stones. Besides, alternative symptoms, such as decreased urine output, metabolic acidosis, disorder of water and electrolyte, anemia and gross hematuria were also reported. Thirty-three patients were diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) upon admission. Twenty-six patients received transplantation. Among them, 17 cases underwent kidney transplantation (2 cases repeatedly received combined liver-kidney transplantation due to recurrence of stones and resumption of dialysis, and 1 case repeatedly received liver transplantation due to resumption of dialysis), 7 cases received combined liver-kidney transplantation, 2 cases underwent liver transplantation, and 3 cases received sequential liver-kidney transplantation, respectively. Thirty-one patients did not undergo transplantation. Significant differences were observed in the survival rate between patients treated with and without transplantation (85 % vs. 58%, P<0.05). Conclusions Clinical manifestations of PH1 are diverse and lack of specificity. A majority of PH1 patients are diagnosed with ESRD upon admission. Clinical prognosis of patients undergoing transplantation is better than that of those counterparts without transplantation. Prior liver transplantation or combined liver-kidney transplantation is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nephrolithiasis is one of the common diseases without effective treatment, the incidence of which has increased in the world in recent decades. Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor can reduce the probability of nephrolithiasis in diabetic and non-diabetic people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A staged ureteroscopic procedure is generally preferred to treat bilateral renal stones. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of bilateral same-session flexible ureteroscopy (BS-fURS) in renal stones. A total of 81 patients underwent bilateral BS-fURS between March 2014 and March 2021 for bilateral renal stones. The mean stone burden per patient was 17±4 (range 7-27 mm). The average stone density was 1240 HU (970 to 1510). We used 4 types of ureteroscopes: Olympus URF-V2 (34 cases), Storz Flex X2 (30 cases), single-use PUSEN PU 3022 (12 cases), and single-use PUSEN - PU 3033A (5 cases). We specifically set our Holmium laser for dusting, pop-corning, and fragmenting. We found 31 calcium oxalate monohydrate cases, 11 calcium oxalate dehydrate cases, 17 uric acid cases, and 22 magnesium ammonium phosphate cases. The mean operating time was 77 min. (range 52 to 85) for both renal units. The SFRs were evaluated between 1 and 3 months with computed tomography (fragments >3 mm were defined as residual). Double J stenting (6Fr.) was applied bilaterally in 8 cases (9.87%) and unilateral in 34 cases (41.97%). The overall SFRs after 1 and 2 procedures were 81.48% (66/81 cases) and 92.59% (75/81 cases), respectively. Postoperative complications after an overall 96 procedures were Clavien I-II (18.75%) and Clavien III (3.12%). Urinary tract infections were observed in 13 cases (16.04%) without any case of urosepsis. Our experience suggested some BS-fURS advantages as a single anesthetic session and potentially reduced cost associated with treatment. BS-fURS seem feasible, especially for medium-sized bilateral renal stones in high-volume centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To classify intraoperative and postoperative complications using the modified Clavien classification system (MCCS) and modified Satava classification system (SCS) and to evaluate the parameters associated with complications in patients undergoing retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for renal and proximal ureteral stones. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 949 patients who underwent RIRS for renal stones and proximal ureteral stones at two institutions between March 2015 and June 2020. Intraoperative complications were assessed using the SCS, and postoperative complications were graded according to the MCCS. Univariate and multivariate analyses were undertaken to determine predictive factors affecting complication rates. Results: The median stone size was determined as 13 mm (range 10–20 mm). The stone-free rate was 83.6% after the first intervention. Reprocedure was applied to 89 of the patients with residual stones and the final stone-free rate was 94.4% after reprocedure. According to SCS, the number of intraoperative events and complication incidences was 153 (16.1%). MCCS revealed postoperative complications in 121 (12.8%) patients. Major complications were observed in 18 (1.9%) patients. The rate of complications was higher in patients with renal anomalies (9.9% vs 3.4%, p = 0.001). Stone location, stone size, stone burden, stone number, stone density, and residual fragments were determined to be associated with the development of complications (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.002, and p < 0.001, respectively). In addition, the multivariate analysis revealed that only the presence of residual fragments was a significant predictor of complication development for the patients with Grade ≥3 complications according to MCCS (p = 0.032). However, significant predictors were stone burden (p < 0.001), stone density (p = 0.002), and fluoroscopy time (p < 0.001) for those with Grade ≥2b complications according to SCS. Conclusion: This study showed that abnormal kidney anatomy, operation time, stone burden, and residual fragments were reliable predictors of complication development during and after RIRS. Appropriate preoperative management should be planned according to these predictors to prevent intraoperative and postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]