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PURPOSE High-quality evidence comparing supine to prone percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for the treatment of complex stones is lacking. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of supine position (SUP) and prone position (PRO) PCNL. MATERIALS AND METHODS A noninferior randomized controlled trial was performed according to the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards for Reporting Trials) criteria. The inclusion criteria were patients over 18 years of age with complex stones. SUP was performed in the Barts flank-free modified position. Except for positioning, all the surgical parameters were identical. The primary outcome was the difference in the success rate on the first postoperative day (POD1) between groups. The secondary outcome was the difference in the stone-free rate (SFR) on the 90th postoperative day (final SFR). A noninferiority margin of 15% was used. Demographic, operative, and safety variables were compared between the groups. Statistical significance was set at p

Purpose: The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of a previous standard percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) on the outcomes of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Materials and Methods: Outcomes of RIRS performed from January 2017 to January 2020 in adult patients with residual stone fragments ≤20mm after a standard PCNL (Post-PCNL) and symptomatic adult patients with kidney stones ≤20mm (Control) were prospectively studied. Stone-free rate (SFR) was evaluated on a postoperative day 90 non-contrast computed tomography. Surgical complications based on Clavien-Dindo classification during the 90 days of follow-up were recorded. Results: Outcomes of 55 patients and 57 renal units of the post-PCNL group were compared to 92 patients and 115 renal units of the control group. SFR was lower in post-PCNL group than in control (28/57, 49.1% vs. 86/115, 74.8%, p

Purpose: to evaluate the effect of low-calorie diet on 24-hour urinary metabolic parameters of obese adults with idiopathic calcium oxalate kidney stones. Materials and Methods: Adult idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers, with body mass index (BMI) ≥30kg/m2 and a known lithogenic metabolic abnormality, were submitted to low-calorie diet for twelve weeks. After enrolment, anthropometric measures, serum exams, 24-hour urinary metabolic parameters and body impedance were collected one month prior to dietary intervention and at the end of twelve weeks. Correlations between weight loss, waist circumference loss, fat loss and variation in 24-hour urinary lithogenic parameters and calcium oxalate urinary supersaturation (CaOx SS) as per Tiselius equation were analysed. Results: From January 2017 to January 2018, 39 patients were enrolled to participate in this study. Median (range) prescribed diet was 1300 (1100-2100) Kcal/day. Mean age was 51.7±11.0 (29-68) years old and 69.2% were female. 30.8% of the participants shifted from obesity to BMI

Objective:To report the outcomes of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in horseshoe kidneys (HSK) in 12 institutions worldwide and evaluate the impact of patient position during operation. Methods:We carried out a retrospective analysis of PCNL procedures performed between 2008 and 2018 in patients with HSK. Pre-, peri-, and postoperative data were collected, and a subgroup analysis was performed according to patient position. Success was defined as an absence of >4-mm fragments. Values ofp < 0.05 were considered significant. Results:We analyzed 106 procedures. The transfusion, complication, and immediate success rates (ISRs) were 3.8%, 17.5%, and 54.7%, respectively. The final success rate (FSR) increased to 72.4% after a mean of 0.24 secondary procedures. Logistic regression showed that higher body mass index (BMI) and stone size were significantly associated with residual fragments >= 4 mm. Sixty-seven patients (63.2%) were treated in prone and 39 (36.8%) in supine position. The prone group had a significantly higher BMI than the supine group (30.1vs27.7,p = 0.024). The transfusion, complication, and ISRs between the prone and supine groups were 4.5%vs2.6% (p = 0.99), 16.9%vs18.4% (p = 0.99), and 52.5%vs69.2% (p = 0.151), respectively. Surgical time was significantly longer in the prone group (126.5vs100 minutes,p = 0.04). Upper pole was the preferred access in 80.3% of the prone group and 43.6% of the supine group (p < 0.001). The prone group had significantly more Clavien 2 complications than the supine (p = 0.013). The FSR in the prone and supine groups increased to 66.1% and 82.1% after 0.26 and 0.21 secondary procedures, respectively. No complications higher than Clavien 3 occurred. Conclusion:PCNL in patients with HSK is safe and effective with a low complication rate. Higher BMI and stone size negatively impacted outcomes. Supine PCNL may be an option for treating kidney stones in patients with HSK.

Background and objective: Magnesium ammonium phosphate stones (MAP), also known as struvite stones, are associated with urinary infection and impairment of renal unit. The aim of this study is to evaluate the urinary metabolic risk factors for recurrence of renal calculi in patients submitted to nephrectomy due to MAP stones. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the charts of patients > 18 years old submitted to total nephrectomy due to pure MAP stones and pure calcium oxalate (CaOx) stones from July 2006 to July 2016. Urinary metabolic parameters were assessed through 24-hour urine exams ≥ 3 months after nephrectomy. Urinary metabolic parameters and new event related to lithiasis were compared. Results: Twenty-eight and 39 patients were included in MAP and CaOx group, respectively. Abnormalities in 24-hour urine samples were similar between groups. Hypercalciuria occurred in 7.1 and 10.3% of patients in MAP and CaOx group, respectively (p = 0.66), whereas hypocitraturia was present in 65.2 and 59.0% of patients with MAP and CaOx group, respectively (p = 0.41). No significant difference in new events was found between MAP and CaOx groups (17.9 vs. 23.1%, respectively; p = 0.60). Conclusion: A 24-hour urine evaluation should be offered to patients submitted to nephrectomy due to pure MAP stones in order to detect metabolic risk, improve treatment, and prevent stone recurrence. Resumo Contexto e objetivo: Cálculos de fosfato de amônio e magnésio (FAM), também conhecidos como cálculos de estruvita, estão associados à infecção urinária e ao comprometimento da unidade renal. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os fatores de risco metabólico-urinários para recorrência de cálculos renais em pacientes submetidos à nefrectomia devido a cálculo de FAM. Métodos: Revisamos retrospectivamente os prontuários de pacientes > 18 anos submetidos à nefrectomia total devido a cálculos de FAM puro e cálculos de oxalato de cálcio puro (OxCa) de julho de 2006 a julho de 2016. Os parâmetros metabólicos urinários foram avaliados através de exames de urina de 24 horas ≥ 3 meses após a nefrectomia. Os parâmetros metabólicos urinários e um novo evento relacionado à litíase foram comparados. Resultados: Vinte e oito e 39 pacientes foram incluídos nos grupos FAM e OxCa, respectivamente. As anormalidades em amostras de urina de 24 horas foram similares entre os grupos. A hipercalciúria ocorreu em 7,1 e 10,3% dos pacientes nos grupos FAM e OxCa, respectivamente (p = 0,66), enquanto a hipocitratúria esteve presente em 65,2 e 59,0% dos pacientes nos grupos FAM e OxCa, respectivamente (p = 0,41). Nenhuma diferença significativa em novos eventos foi encontrada entre os grupos FAM e OxCa (17,9 vs. 23,1%, respectivamente; p = 0,60). Conclusão: Uma avaliação de urina de 24 horas deve ser oferecida aos pacientes submetidos à nefrectomia devido a cálculos de FAM puro, a fim de detectar risco metabólico, melhorar o tratamento e prevenir a recorrência de cálculos.

Background: Despite technology incorporation to percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), residual stone fragments (RSFs) may still persist after PCNL and need to be addressed to avoid regrowth or urete...

Flexible ureteroscopy is a well-established method for treatment of urinary stones but flexible ureteroscopes are expensive and fragile devices with a very limited lifetime. Since 2006 with the advent of digital flexible ureteroscopes a great evolution has occurred. The first single-use flexible ureteroscope was launched in 2011 and new models are coming to the market. The aim of this article is to review the characteristics of these devices, compare their results with the reusable devices and evaluate the cost-benefits of adopting single-use flexible ureteroscopes in developing countries. Materials and Methods: an extensive review of articles listed at PubMed and published between 2000 and 2021 was performed. Results: Single-use flexible ureteroscopes have a shaft with 65 to 68cm length and weight between 119 and 277g. Their deflection goes up to 300 degrees. Their stone-free rates vary between 60 and 95% which is comparable to reusable scopes and operative times ranges from 54 to 86 minutes which are lower when compared to reusable flexible scopes. Their costs vary between 800 and 3180 US dollars. Conclusion: single-use flexible ureteroscopes are lighter and have superior quality of image when compared to fiberoptic ones. There are no definite data showing a higher stone-free rate or less complications with the use of single-use flexible ureteroscopes. Each institution must perform a cost-benefit analysis before making the decision of adopting or not such devices depending on the local circumstances.

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION: Patients with bilateral kidney stones and burdened by large stones are challenging cases for endourologists. Simultaneous bilateral percutaneous nephrolithotomy (sbPCNL) is an option; however, it may be accompanied by important morbidity. An alternative is a staged PCNL, operating one side each time. Herein, we compare the impact of sbPCNL and staged PCNL on complication rates and renal function. METHODS: Patients who underwent sbPCNL or staged bilateral PCNL with a frame time of 6 months were searched in our prospectively collected kidney stone database. Groups were compared for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities (classification by the American Society of Anesthesiology - ASA), stone size, Guy's score, stone-free status, renal function, blood loss, blood transfusion rate, complication rate, and length of hospital stay. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients and 52 kidney units were enrolled. The mean operative time was 134.7 min. Only 11.3% of cases had complications, all of them minor (Clavien ≤ 2). Overall, the stone-free rate was 61.50%. Comparing the groups, there was a significantly longer operative time in the sbPCNL group (172.5 vs. 126.3 min; p=0.016), as well as a higher transfusion rate (12.5% vs. 5.6%; p=0.036). There was no statistically significant difference in creatinine levels between the groups. Regarding the stone-free rate, there was a significantly higher proportion of patients in the staged PCNL group (64.9% vs. 43.8%; p=0.012). CONCLUSION: sbPCNL is a safe procedure; however, when compared to staged procedures it has a higher transfusion and lower stone-free rate. RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: Paciente com cálculos renais bilaterais e de grande volume são casos desafiadores para os endourologistas. A nefrolitotripsia percutânea bilateral simultânea (NLPbs) é um opção, entretanto esse procedimento pode ser acompanhado de morbidade importante. Uma alternativa é a NLP estagiada, operando um lado de cada vez. Aqui, nós comparamos o impacto da NLPbs e da NLP estagiada nas taxas de complicações e função renal. MÉTODOS: Pacientes que foram submetidos a NLPsb ou NLP stagiada com intervalo de até 6 meses foram pesquisados em nossa base de dados de cálculos renais prospectivamente coletada. Os grupos foram comparados em idade, gênero, índice de massa corpórea (IMC), comorbidades (classificação da Sociedade Americana de Anestesiologia – ASA), tamanho do cálculo, Classificação de Guys, taxa de pacientes livres de cálculos, função renal, perda sanguínea, taxa de transfusão, taxa de complicações e tempo de internação hospitalar. RESULTADOS: Vinte e seis paciente e 52 unidades renais foram incluídas. O tempo operatório médio foi de 134,7 min. Apenas 11.3% dos casos tiveram complicações, sendo todas menores (Clavien ≤ 2). No geral, a taxa de pacientes livres de cálculos foi de 61,5%. Comparando os grupos houve um tempo operatório significativamente maior no grupo NLPbs(172,5 vs. 126,3 min; p=0,016), assim como uma maior taxa de transfusão (12,5% vs. 5,6%; p=0.036). Não houve diferença significante nos níveis de creatinina entre os grupos. Em relação a taxa de doentes livre de cálculos houve uma proporção significativamente maior de pacientes livres de cálculos na NLP estagiada (64,9% vs. 43,8%; p=0,012). CONCLUSÃO: A NLPsb é um procedimento seguro, entretando quando comparada ao procedimento estagiado apresenta uma maior taxa de transfusão e uma menor taxa de pacientes livres de cálculos.

To assess the complication and stone-free rates of PCNL in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) and to evaluate whether this population should be assigned a Guy’s stone score (GSS) of 4. A case–control study was conducted, and electronic charts were reviewed to search for patients with SCI, bladder dysfunction, and kidney stones who had undergone PCNL. Control cases were randomly selected from among patients with complete staghorn calculus (GSS = 4). One hundred and seventeen patients were included. Patients with SCI had a significant shorter operative time (119 vs. 141 min; p = 0.018). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of the patients’ position, number of renal tracts, bleeding or transfusion rate; however, there was a significantly higher complication rate (23.1% vs. 7.8%; p = 0.009) and a longer hospital stay (5.8 vs. 3.1 days; p = 0.002) among patients with SCI. With regards to the stone-free rate in patients with different grades of GSS patients with SCI who had a GSS of 1 had a stone-free rate of 85.7%, while those with a GSS of 2, 3, or 4 had 50%, 50%, and 31.5%, respectively (p = 0.024). Only patients with a GSS of 4 in the SCI group had outcomes that were similar to those of control patients (31.5% vs. 31.6%). Patients with SCI should not be automatically assigned GSS 4. Stone-free rate is related to stone burden in these patients, although they do show a higher complication rate and a longer hospital stay than non-neurological patients.

Introduction: Lower pole kidney stones have been associated with poor shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) outcomes because of its location. However, the real impact of collecting system anatomy on stone c...

Objective: The big data provided by Google Trends may reveal patterns in health information-seeking behavior on population from Brazil and United States (US). Our objective was to explore and compare patterns of stone disease online information-seeking behaviors in both nations. Materials and Methods: To compare Relative Search Volume (RSV) among different urologic key words we chose “US” and “Brazil” as country and “01/01/2009 - 31/12/2018” as time-range. The final selection included 12 key words in each language. We defined “ureteroscopy” as a reference and compared RSV against it for each term. RSV was adjusted by the reference and normalized in a scale from 0-100. Trend presence was evaluated by Mann Kendall Test and magnitude by Sen's Slope (SS) Estimator. Results: We found an upward trend (p

Objectives Measurements of stone features may vary according to the non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) technique. Using magnified bone window is the most accurate method to measure urinary stones. Possible differences between stone measurements in different NCCT windows have not been evaluated in stones located in the kidney. The aim of this study is to compare measurements of kidney stone features between NCCT bone and soft tissue windows in patients submitted to retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Materials and Methods Preoperative and 90th postoperative day NCCT were performed in 92 consecutive symptomatic adult patients (115 renal units) with kidney stones between 5 mm to 20 mm (< 15 mm in the lower calyx) treated by RIRS. NCCT were evaluated in the magnified bone window and soft tissue window in three axes in a different time by a single radiologist blinded for the measurements of the NCCT other method. Results Stone largest size (7.92±3.81 vs. 9.13±4.08; mm), volume (435.5±472.7 vs. 683.1±665.0; mm3) and density (989.4±330.2 vs. 893.0±324.6; HU) differed between bone and soft-tissue windows, respectively (p 2 mm on soft tissue window to 0-2 mm on bone window. Conclusion Kidney stone measurements vary according to NCCT window. Measurements in soft tissue window NCCT of stone diameter and volume are larger and stone density is lesser than in bone window. These differences may have impact on clinical decisions.

Author(s): Marchini, Giovanni S; Torricelli, Fabio C; Batagello, Carlos A; Monga, Manoj; Vicentini, Fabio C; Danilovic, Alexandre; Srougi, Miguel; Nahas, William C; Mazzucchi, Eduardo | Abstract: PurposeTo critically review all literature concerning the cost-effectiveness of flexible ureteroscopy comparing single-use with reusable scopes.Materials and methodsA systematic online literature review was performed in PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar databases. All factors potentially affecting surgical costs or clinical outcomes were considered. Prospective assessments, case control and case series studies were included.Results741 studies were found. Of those, 18 were duplicated and 77 were not related to urology procedures. Of the remaining 646 studies, 59 were considered of relevance and selected for further analysis. Stone free and complication rates were similar between single-use and reusable scopes. Operative time was in average 20% shorter with digital scopes, single-use or not. Reusable digital scopes seem to last longer than optic ones, though scope longevity is very variable worldwide. New scopes usually last four times more than refurbished ones and single-use ureterorenoscopes have good resilience throughout long cases. Longer scope longevity is achieved with Cidex and if a dedicated nurse takes care of the sterilization process. The main surgical factors that negatively impact device longevity are lower pole pathologies, large stone burden and non-use of a ureteral access sheath. We have built a comprehensive fi nancial costeffective decision model to fl exible ureteroscope acquisition.ConclusionsThe cost-effectiveness of a fl exible ureteroscopy program is dependent of several aspects. We have developed a equation to allow a literature-based and adaptable decision model to every interested stakeholder. Disposable devices are already a reality and will progressively become the standard as manufacturing price falls.

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease characterized by epithelioid noncaseating granulomas associated with clinical and radiologic findings. The cause of this disease is still uncertain. Sarcoidosis affects mostly lungs and lymph nodes and is not usually considered a urological disease, therefore, this etiology may be overlooked in several urological disorders, such as hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria and nephrolithiasis. It affects all races and genders. This review aims to describe the urological manifestations of sarcoidosis and to elucidate how the disease may affect the management of numerous urological conditions.

COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly spreading virus that is changing the World and the way doctors are practicing medicine. The huge number of patients searching for medical care and needing intensive care beds led the health care system to a burnout status especially in places where the care system was already overloaded. In this setting, and also due to the absence of a specific treatment for the disease, health authorities had to opt for recommending or imposing social distancing to relieve the health system and reduce deaths. All other medical specialties nondirectly related to the treatment of COVID-19 had to interrupt or strongly reduce their activities in order to give room to seriously ill patients, since no one knows so far the real extent of the virus damage on human body and the consequences of doing non deferrable procedures in this pandemic era. Despite not been a urological disease, the urologist needs to be updated on how to deal with these patients and how to take care of himself and of the medical team he works with. The aim of this article is to review briefly some practical aspects of COVID-19 and its implications in the urological practice in our country.

Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of single-dose tranexamic acid on the blood transfusion rate and outcomes of patients with complex kidney stones who have undergone percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Material and methods In a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, 192 patients with complex kidney stone (Guy's Stone Scores III-IV) were prospectively enrolled and randomized (1:1 ratio) to receive either one dose of tranexamic acid (1 g) or a placebo at the time of anesthetic induction for PCNL. The primary outcome measure was the occurrence rate of perioperative blood transfusion. The secondary outcome measures included blood loss, operative time, stone-free rate (SFR), and complications. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02966236. Results The overall risk of receiving a blood transfusion was reduced in the tranexamic acid group (2.2% vs 10.4%, relative risk: 0.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03-0.76; P = 0.033, number-needed-to-treat: 12). Patients randomized to the tranexamic acid group showed higher immediate and three-month SFR compared with those in the placebo group (29% vs 14.7%, odds ratio [95% CI]: 2.37 [1.15-4.87], P = 0.019, and 46.2% vs 28.1%, odds ratio [95% CI]: 2.20 [1.20-4.02], P = 0.011, respectively). Faster hemoglobin recovery was demonstrated by patients in the tranexamic group (mean, 21.3 days, P = 0.001). No statistical differences were found in operative time and complications between groups. Conclusions Tranexamic acid administration is safe and reduces the need for blood transfusion by five times in patients with complex kidney stones undergoing PCNL. Moreover, tranexamic acid may contributes to better stone clearance rate and faster hemoglobin recovery without increasing complications. A single dose of tranexamic acid at the time of anesthetic induction could be considered standard clinical practice for patients with complex kidney stones undergoing PCNL.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to prospectively compare the outcomes of bilateral same-session retrograde intrarenal surgery (BSS RIRS) with unilateral RIRS and to compare the outcomes of ...

Purpose To analyse patterns of stone disease online information-seeking behaviours in the United States and to correlate with urological literature publication aspects. Methods To compare Relative Search Volume (RSV) among different twelve preselected urologic keywords we chose “United States” as country and “01/01/2009–31/12/2018” as time range on Google Trends (GT). We defined “ureteroscopy” as a reference and compared RSV against it for each term. RSV was adjusted and normalized in a scale 0–100. Trend presence was evaluated by Mann–Kendall Test and magnitude by Sen’s Slope Estimator (SS). Weather influence on RSV was also investigated by comparison of the ten hottest versus ten coldest states. Pearson correlation analysis was performed between number of Pubmed publications and RSV for each term over time. Results We found an upward tendency (p

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE:Bleeding is one of the most unpredictable and threatening complication during PCNL. Tranexamic acid (TXA), an antifibrinolytic agent, has proven to reduce blood loss and ...

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE:Cystinuria is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by the failure of the proximal tubule to reabsorb the glomerulus-filtered cystine. Two genes encode the two pro...

To define the most suitable approach to assess residual stone fragments after retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS).Ninety-two patients (115 renal units) submitted to RIRS for symptomatic kidney stones5 mm and20 mm or15 mm in the lower Calyx diagnosed by noncontrast CT (NCCT) were prospectively studied. Residual fragments were assessed by endoscopic evaluation (END) at the end of the procedure and by NCCT, ultrasonography (US), and kidney, ureter, and bladder radiograph (KUB) on the 90th postoperative day (POD). NCCT was considered the gold standard for the evaluation of residual fragments after RIRS.The 90th POD NCCT resulted in stone-free status in 74.8% (86/115), 0-2 mm in 8.7% (10/115), and2 mm residual fragments in 16.5% (19/115) renal units. Stone-free status by END at the end of RIRS was coincident with NCCT in 93.0% of the cases (40/43). There were no cases of residual fragments2 mm on NCCT if END resulted in stone-free status. In all cases where END resulted in residual fragments2 mm, US proved to be correct according to NCCT. Neither US nor KUB was able to identify residual fragments between 0 and 2 mm. KUB had only 31.6% (6/19) sensitivity to detect residual fragments2 mm and did not add sensitivity or specificity to US.In the follow-up imaging after RIRS, we suggest that if END resulted in residual fragments2 mm, a 90th POD NCCT should be performed. US may be used if END showed fragments2 mm.

Introduction: To demonstrate the entire surgeon's point of view of a prone split-leg (PSL) endoscopic guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy (ePCNL) recorded with a GoPro® camera for standardization of the essential technical steps towards a successful procedure (1). Materials and methods: A 40y.o female patient presented with right flank pain for three years. She had previously been submitted to shock wave lithotripsy without success. Non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) revealed a 2cm stone in the renal pelvis with 1400HU and stone-to-skin distance of 11cm (Guy's Stone Score 1). PCNL approach was chosen for providing higher chances of stone-free after a single procedure. Informed consent was obtained. The PSL ePCNL was uneventful with a single access in a mid-pole. The surgeon had a Full HD GoPro Hero 4® camera mounted on his head, controlled by the surgical staff with a remote control. All essential surgical steps were recorded. Results: Operative time was 90 minutes. Hemoglobin drop was 0.7g/dL. The post-operative NCCT scan was stone-free. The patient was discharged 24h after surgery. Kidney stent was left with a string and removed after 5days. The camera worked properly and didn't cause any kind of discomfort to the surgeon. The quality of the recorded movie was excellent. Conclusion: By recording the surgeon's perspective of an endoscopic urological procedure, we were able to provide a comprehensive understanding of the surgical technique by assembling the endoscopic, fluoroscopic, and operative field views. The GoPro® camera proved to be an interesting tool to document surgical procedures without compromising outcomes and has great potential for educational purposes.

Objective: This study aims to design a novel semirigid ureterorenoscope with irrigation and vacuum suction system and a modified ureteral access sheath (UAS) named Sotn ureterorenoscope® (Sotn=ShuoTong Medical Company) to overcome the deficiencies of the current procedure and to improve the efficiency and safety of using Sotn ureterorenoscope® for treatment of upper urinary calculi. Materials and Methods: Fifty-eight patients, comprising 31 males and 27 females, were evaluated. The medical records of 58 patients with upper urinary calculi treated with Sotn ureterorenoscope® from March 2015 to June 2017 were retrospectively reviewed at the Second Affiliate Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine in China. The primary outcome was stone-free rate (SFR) assessed by computed tomography on the 1st day and one month after treatment. The secondary outcome was postoperative complication rate. Results: The mean and SD of operative duration was 48.5 (10.4) min, and the mean and SD of stone size was 15.6 (5.6) mm. The primary overall SFR was 89.7% (52/58) and 100% at 1 month follow-up. Complication, which was Clavien I (minor fever managed by antipyretic therapy), was detected in 1.7% (1/58) of the patients. Conclusions: Sotn ureterorenoscope® is technically feasible, efficacious and safe for treatment of upper urinary calculi because of its advantages of high SFR and low complication rates.

RESUMO Objetivo: investigar os fatores de risco de conversão para cirurgia aberta na nefrectomia laparoscópica (NL) para urolitíase. Métodos: foram revisados os dados de todos os pacientes maiores de 18 anos de idade submetidos à NL entre janeiro de 2006 e maio de 2013 em nossa Instituição. Índice de Charlson, escore ASA, função renal pela equação e estágio de MDRD (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease), achados de tomografia computadorizada (TC) pré-operatória, complicações pela classificação de Clavien-Dindo e taxa de conversão foram analisados. Determinaram-se os fatores de risco para conversão por meio de regressão logística. Resultados: oitenta e quatro pacientes foram submetidos à LN, sendo que 16 (19%) tiveram seu procedimento convertido para cirurgia aberta devido à forte aderência do hilo renal aos órgãos adjacentes. Outras causas associadas à conversão foram sangramento excessivo (n=6) e lesão do intestino grosso (n=3). Na análise univariada, cirurgia renal prévia, borramento da gordura perirrenal, abscesso renal, abscesso perirrenal, abscesso pararrenal, fístula, aderência ao fígado ou baço e aderência ao intestino foram associados à conversão. Na análise multivariada, abscesso pararrenal e aderência ao intestino foram fatores de risco significativos para a conversão. Conclusão: abscesso pararrenal e aderência ao intestino demonstrados na TC pré-operatória são fatores de risco de conversão para cirurgia aberta em LN por urolitíase. ABSTRACT Objective: to investigate the risk factors for conversion to open surgery in laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) for urolithiasis. Methods: we reviewed data on all patients over 18 years of age submitted to LN between January 2006 and May 2013 at our institution. We analyzed the Charlson's index, the ASA score, renal function by the equation and stage of MDRD (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease), preoperative computed tomography (CT) findings, complications by the Clavien-Dindo classification and conversion rate. We used logistic regression analysis to determine the risk factors for conversion. Results: eighty-four patients underwent LN, 16 (19%) sustaining convertion to open surgery due to the strong adhesion of the renal hilum to the adjacent organs. Other causes associated with conversion were excessive bleeding (n=6) and lesion of the large intestine (n=3). In the univariate analysis, previous renal surgery, perirenal fat blurring, renal abscess, perirenal abscess, pararenal abscess, fistula, adherence to the liver or spleen, and adherence to the intestine were associated with conversion. In the multivariate analysis, pararenal abscess and adherence to the intestine were significant risk factors for conversion. Conclusion: pararenal abscess and bowel adhesions demonstrated in the preoperative CT are risk factors for conversion to open surgery in LN due to urolithiasis.

To define computed tomography (CT) predictors of residual fragments after retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for kidney stones up to 20 mm in patients never submitted to surgical procedures for stone removal.From August 2016 to August 2017, symptomatic adult patients with kidney stones less than 20 mm treated by RIRS had their pre- and postoperative CT prospectively evaluated in search for predictors of residual stone fragments. Stone size, stone volume, number of stones, stone density, and location were evaluated in preoperative CT and analyzed as predictors for residual stone fragments on 90 POD CT. Stone location was represented by the infundibulopelvic angle (IPA) measured for each stone on preoperative noncontrast CT using multiplanar reconstruction.Ninety-two patients were successfully submitted to RIRS. Bilateral procedures were performed in 23 patients (25%) resulting in 115 renal units operated. Operative time was 54.5 ± 26.7 minutes (mean ± SD) and 96.7% (89/92) of the patients were discharged up to 12 hours after the procedure. Postoperative CT demonstrated stone-free in 86 of 115 (74.8%), 0-2 mm in 10 of 115 (8.7%), and2 mm residual fragments in 19 of 115 (16.5%) procedures. Logistic regression analysis revealed steep IPA was a predictor for any residual stone fragment after RIRS for kidney stones20 mm (P= .012). ROC curve showed that IPA41° was associated with a higher chance of residual fragments after RIRS.IPA41° is associated with a higher chance of residual fragments after RIRS for kidney stones up to 20 mm.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES:Bleeding is one of the most unpredictable and threatening complication during PCNL. Tranexamic acid (TXA), an antifibrinolytic agent, has proven to reduce blood loss and...

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES:Cystinuria is a recessive inherited disorder characterized by impaired tubular reabsorption of cystine and dibasic amino acids ultimately resulting in urolithiasis. Prev...

Objective: To evaluate whether reducing the dose of fluoroscopy to ¼ of standard dose during unilateral ureteroscopy for ureteral stone treatment would impact in a reduction of total radia...

Objectives: Nephrectomy due to stone disease may be a challenging procedure owing to the presence of significant inflammation and infection, involving high complication rate. The objective of our study was to identify predictors for complications of nephrectomy for urolithiasis. Patients and Methods: A retrospective review of 149 consecutive patients > 18y submitted to simple nephrectomy for urolithiasis from January 2006 to July 2012 was performed. Clinical data, computed tomography findings and pathology report were analyzed. Postoperative complications were categorized based on Clavien - Dindo classification. Logistic multivariate regression models assessed the predictors for surgical complications of nephrectomy for urolithiasis. Results: Eighty-three (55.7%) patients were submitted to laparoscopic nephrectomy and 66 (44.2%) to open procedure. Conversion to open surgery was necessary in 19.2% (16 / 83). On univariable analysis, higher preoperative chronic kidney stage (p = 0.02), Charlson comorbidity index ≥ 2 (p = 0.04), higher ASA score (p = 0.001), urgency due to sepsis (p = 0.01), kidney size ≥ 12 cm (p = 0.006), renal and perirenal abscess (p = 0.004 and 0.002 respectively) and visceral adhesion (p = 0.04) were associated with Clavien - Dindo score > 1. On multivariate analysis, higher ASA score (p = 0.01), urgency due to sepsis (p = 0.03), kidney size ≥ 12 cm (p = 0.04) and preoperative abscess (p = 0.04) remained significantly associated with complications. End - stage renal disease with dialysis was needed post - operatively in 3.4% (5 / 144) of patients. Conclusions: We identified that higher ASA score, urgency due to sepsis, kidney size ≥ 12 cm and preoperative abscess were associated with Clavien - Dindo score > 1.

Objective To demonstrate a successful 1-session approach to a complete calcified ureteral stent, preserving the affected kidney without complications. Patient and Methods A 33-year-old man presented at our service with an increased urinary frequency, afebrile urinary tract infection, and left lumbar pain. He underwent a ureterolithotripsy with ureteral stenting 3 years ago. After that intervention, he was lost to follow-up. A noncontrast computed tomography scan revealed a complete calcified ureteral stent (FECal V). After careful preoperative planning, the patient was submitted to a combined 1-step approach including left semirigid ureteroscopy, left percutaneous nephrolithotomy, and an open cystolithotomy in supine decubitus. This video demonstrates the surgical steps of the procedure for a FECal V (completely calcified) stent removal. Results Operative time was 240 minutes. The calcified stent was completely removed. A 6 Fr ureteral catheter and a 16 Fr nephrostomy tube were left at the end of the procedure. No double-J stent was used to avoid the same kind of complication. The patient had no peri- or postoperative complications. A computed tomography scan was performed in the first postoperative day (POD) and revealed 2 small residual fragments (7 mm and 6 mm). The ureteral catheter was removed on the first POD, and the nephrostomy tube on the second POD. The patient was discharged from hospital on the third POD. The patient is now scheduled to a flexible ureteroscopy to treat the small residual fragments. Conclusion Forgotten ureteral stent is a surgical challenge, requiring multiple approaches and advanced urologic techniques. Our video illustrates that a less invasive and combined 1-step procedure to preserve the kidney is both safe and feasible, when performed by an experienced surgeon.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE:Lower pole kidney stones have been associated with poor shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) outcomes due to its location. However, the real impact of collecting system anatomy o...

Phyllanthus niruri (P.niruri) or stone breaker is a plant commonly used to reduce stone risk, however, clinical studies on this issue are lacking. Objective: To prospectively evaluate the effect of P. niruri on the urinary metabolic parameters of patients with urinary lithiasis. Materials and Methods: We studied 56 patients with kidney stones

We evaluated which variables impact fragmentation and clearance of lower pole calculi after shock wave lithotripsy.We prospectively evaluated patients undergoing shock wave lithotripsy for a solitary 5 to 20 mm lower pole kidney stone between June 2012 and August 2014. Patient body mass index and abdominal waist circumference were recorded. One radiologist blinded to shock wave lithotripsy outcomes measured stone size, area and density, stone-to-skin distance, infundibular length, width and height, and infundibulopelvic angle based on baseline noncontrast computerized tomography. Fragmentation, success (defined as residual fragments less than 4 mm in asymptomatic patients) and the stone-free rate were evaluated by noncontrast computerized tomography 12 weeks postoperatively. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed.A total of 100 patients were enrolled in the study. Mean stone size was 9.1 mm. Overall fragmentation, success and stone-free rates were 76%, 54% and 37%, respectively. On logistic regression body mass index (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.11-1.49, p = 0.004) and stone density (OR 1.0026, 95% CI 1.0008-1.0046, p = 0.005) significantly impacted fragmentation. Stone size (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.07-1.48, p = 0.039) and stone density (OR 1.0021, 95% CI 1.0007-1.0037, p = 0.012) impacted the success rate while stone size (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.04-1.50, p = 0.029), stone density (OR 1.0015, 95% CI 1.0001-1.0032, p = 0.046) and infundibular length (OR 1.1035, 95% CI 1.015-1.217, p = 0.015) impacted the stone-free rate. The best outcomes were found in patients with a body mass index of 30 kg/m(2) or less, stones 10 mm or less and 900 HU or less, and an infundibular length of 25 mm or less. The coexistence of significant unfavorable variables led to a stone-free rate of less than 20%.Obese patients with higher than 10 mm density stones (greater than 900 HU) in the lower pole of the kidney with an infundibular length of greater than 25 mm should be discouraged from undergoing shock wave lithotripsy.

Objectives to characterize the stone risk and the impact of parathyroidectomy on the metabolic profile of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and urolithiasis. Subjects and Methods We analyzed the prospectively collected charts of patients treated at our stone clinic from Jan/2001-Jan/2016 searching for patients with PHPT and urolithiasis. Imaging evaluation of the kidneys, bones and parathyroid glands were assessed. We analyzed the demographic data, serum and urinary parameters before and after parathyroidectomy. Statistical analysis included paired T/Fisher/Spearman/ANOVA tests. Significance was set at p

Objective: To compare the application time and the capacity of the nomograms to predict the success of Guy's Stone Score (GSS), S.T.O.N.E. Nephrolithometry (STONE) and Clinical Research Office of the Endourological Society nephrolithometric nomogram (CROES) of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), evaluating the most efficient one for clinical use. Materials and Methods: We studied 48 patients who underwent PCNL by the same surgeon between 2010 and 2011. We calculated GSS, STONE and CROES based on pre-operative non-contrast computed tomography (CT) images and clinical data. A single observer, blinded to the outcomes, reviewed all images and assigned scores. We compared the application time of each nomogram. We used an analysis of variance for repeated measures and multiple comparisons by the Tukey test. We compared the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the three nomograms two by two to determine the most predictive scoring system. Results: The immediate success rate was 66.7% and complications occurred in 16.7% of cases. The average operative time was 122 minutes. Mean application time was significantly lower for the GSS (27.5 seconds) when compared to 300.6 seconds for STONE and 213.4 seconds for CROES (p

To study several measurements from a single-energy noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) that may distinguish calcium oxalate, uric acid, and cystine stones.Patients with pure urinary stones who had at least 1 single-energy NCCT before the stone composition analysis from January 2008 to December 2012 were enrolled in this study. The analyzed data comprised stone size, volume, core Hounsfield unit (HU), periphery HU, absolute and relative HU differences between core and periphery, and HU density. After these measurements, an NCCT bone window was subjectively evaluated to study the homogeneity of each stone from core to periphery. The Spearman correlation test was used to determine the correlation between HU values and stone size and volume for each group.A total of 113 patients were found with pure urinary stones who also had a corresponding NCCT. There were 36, 47, and 30 patients in the calcium oxalate, uric acid, and cystine groups, respectively. The core HU, periphery HU, absolute and relative HU differences, and HU density were significantly different among the 3 groups (P.001). Stone size and volume had a positive correlation with core and periphery HUs only for calcium oxalate and cystine stones. The subjective evaluation of the urinary calculi revealed a different pattern for each stone composition.Single-energy NCCT may predict calcium oxalate stones with a high degree of accuracy. There is an overlap in radiographic profiles of cystine and uric acid stones, making a definitive differentiation more challenging.