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Background: Here, we aim to develop and validate a viable prognostic nomogram model for predicting a stone-free rate of kidney stones patients based on retrospective cohort analysis. Methods: This is a retrospective study that obtained a continuous cohort from the databases of two hospitals (General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, and Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital), including 522 patients with kidney stones who underwent Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery (ECIRS) from January 2015 to December 2022.The characteristics of the primary cohort between the SF (stone-free) and SR (stone residue) groups were identified using single factor and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Factors in the main cohort were identified using minimal absolute shrinkage and selective operator regression. A nomogram was then constructed using these factors for subsequent analyses. Finally, a calibration curve, a receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), and a decision curve analysis (DCA) curve were analyzed and plotted, and then used to test the predictive value of the nomogram in both calibration and discrimination. Results: Hydronephrosis, Renal Infundibular Length (RIL), Renal Infundibular Width (RIW), stone burden, and number of calyces involved were revealed to be significant factors in the prediction of stone-free rate after ECIRS. These five factors were used to develop a nomogram with good calibration and differentiation. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.811 (95% CI: 0.766–0.856). The DCA demonstrated that the nomogram has clinical utility. Conclusions: Hydronephrosis, renal infundibular length, renal infundibular width, stone burden, and number of involved calyces were all significantly linked with residual stone after ECIRS. A nomogram created with these five factors showed good calibration, differentiation, and clinical usefulness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Here, we aim to develop and validate a viable prognostic nomogram model for predicting a stone-free rate of kidney stones patients based on retrospective cohort analysis. Methods This is a retrospective study that obtained a continuous cohort from the databases of two hospitals (General Hospital of Southern Theater Command, and Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital), including 522 patients with kidney stones who underwent Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery (ECIRS) from January 2015 to December 2022.The characteristics of the primary cohort between the SF (stone-free) and SR (stone residue) groups were identified using single factor and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Factors in the main cohort were identified using minimal absolute shrinkage and selective operator regression. A nomogram was then constructed using these factors for subsequent analyses. Finally, a calibration curve, a receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), and a decision curve analysis (DCA) curve were analyzed and plotted, and then used to test the predictive value of the nomogram in both calibration and discrimination. Results Hydronephrosis, Renal Infundibular Length (RIL), Renal Infundibular Width (RIW), stone burden, and number of calyces involved were revealed to be significant factors in the prediction of stone-free rate after ECIRS. These five factors were used to develop a nomogram with good calibration and differentiation. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.811 (95% CI: 0.766–0.856). The DCA demonstrated that the nomogram has clinical utility. Conclusions Hydronephrosis, renal infundibular length, renal infundibular width, stone burden, and number of involved calyces were all significantly linked with residual stone after ECIRS. A nomogram created with these five factors showed good calibration, differentiation, and clinical usefulness.

Abstract Background This study aimed to evaluate the intrarenal pelvic pressure in endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery using an artificial kidney model. Methods An artificial kidney model was created using the Urovac evacuator™. Four sizes of nephrostomy sheaths (MIP-L: 25/26 Fr, MIP-M: 16.5/17.5 Fr, MIP-S: 11/12 Fr, MIP-XS: 8.5/9.5 Fr) and two sizes of ureteral access sheaths (12/14 Fr and 10/12 Fr) were installed into the model. For each combination of nephrostomy and ureteral access sheath, renal pelvic pressure was measured with and without insertion of the retrograde flexible ureteroscope. Irrigation from the nephroscope was adjusted to 40–160 mmHg using an automatic irrigation device, and the irrigation of the ureteroscope was by spontaneous dripping at 80 cmH2O. Conditions were measured six times, and the renal pelvic pressure was compared in different conditions. Results Without ureteroscope insertion through the ureteral access sheath, the renal pelvic pressure never exceeded 30 mmHg. Meanwhile, when the ureteroscope was inserted, the renal pelvic pressure increased as the nephrostomy sheath and ureteral access sheath became narrower and as the irrigation pressure increased. Intrarenal pelvic pressure exceeded 30 mmHg when the irrigation pressure was increased in 12/14 Fr ureteral access sheath when MIP-XS was used, and in 10/12 Fr ureteral access sheath when MIP-XS and MIP-S were used. Conclusions The use of a thin nephrostomy sheath in endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery can lead to increased intrarenal pelvic pressure. Although our results are from an artificial kidney model, special care is suggested to be required when using a retrograde flexible ureteroscope simultaneously in treatment of patients.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the intrarenal pelvic pressure in endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery using an artificial kidney model. Methods: An artificial kidney model was created using the Urovac evacuator™. Four sizes of nephrostomy sheaths (MIP-L: 25/26 Fr, MIP-M: 16.5/17.5 Fr, MIP-S: 11/12 Fr, MIP-XS: 8.5/9.5 Fr) and two sizes of ureteral access sheaths (12/14 Fr and 10/12 Fr) were installed into the model. For each combination of nephrostomy and ureteral access sheath, renal pelvic pressure was measured with and without insertion of the retrograde flexible ureteroscope. Irrigation from the nephroscope was adjusted to 40–160 mmHg using an automatic irrigation device, and the irrigation of the ureteroscope was by spontaneous dripping at 80 cmH2O. Conditions were measured six times, and the renal pelvic pressure was compared in different conditions. Results: Without ureteroscope insertion through the ureteral access sheath, the renal pelvic pressure never exceeded 30 mmHg. Meanwhile, when the ureteroscope was inserted, the renal pelvic pressure increased as the nephrostomy sheath and ureteral access sheath became narrower and as the irrigation pressure increased. Intrarenal pelvic pressure exceeded 30 mmHg when the irrigation pressure was increased in 12/14 Fr ureteral access sheath when MIP-XS was used, and in 10/12 Fr ureteral access sheath when MIP-XS and MIP-S were used. Conclusions: The use of a thin nephrostomy sheath in endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery can lead to increased intrarenal pelvic pressure. Although our results are from an artificial kidney model, special care is suggested to be required when using a retrograde flexible ureteroscope simultaneously in treatment of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) provides simultaneous retrograde and percutaneous access to the upper urinary tract. The purpose of this study is to present revised data, tips and tricks, and technique modifications arising from our five-year experience with ECIRS. The data of 62 patients who underwent nonpapillary prone ECIRS from January 2019 to November 2023 were prospectively collected. All cases were performed in the prone position. Inclusion criteria were complex stone cases with stones in multiple calyces requiring either multiple accesses or multiple sessions to achieve stone-free status. Patients' mean age was 54.4 ± 12.39 years, while the mean stone size was 39.03 ± 13.93 mm. The mean operative time was 51.23 ± 17.75 min. Primary and final stone-free rates were 83.8% and 90.3%, respectively. In total, nine patients presented with postoperative complications, which were all Grade II ones. The holmium-YAG laser type during retrograde lithotripsy was associated with significantly shorter operative times compared to the thulium fiber laser. Nonpapillary prone ECIRS is a feasible, safe, and efficient approach for patients with specific stone and anatomy characteristics. The implementation of more, higher-evidence studies is of utmost importance so that safer conclusions can be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal artery pseudoaneurysm (rap) is a rare but serious complication following trauma or renal surgery, with an occurrence of 0.6% for open renal surgery. The diverse etiologies include penetrating, iatrogenic, or traumatic injuries such as percutaneous procedures or partial nephrectomy, nephrolithotomy, other minimally invasive renal procedures, blunt trauma, or inflammatory disease. Our patient debuted with hematuria after a percutaneous needle puncture. The most common presentations of rap are hematuria, flank pain, and anemia, with a presentation usually approximately 2-week post-surgery. Untreated raps can lead to a severe blood loss, hemorrhagic shock, and even death. Angioembolization is the preferred intervention, allowing both diagnosis and treatment in 96% of cases. Coil embolization is an effective method for treating renal pseudoaneurysms with high success rates. We perform a superselective endovascular embolization that, according to the literature, should be considered as a first-line management tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The ILY robotic flexible ureteroscope has been introduced in order to improve intraoperative ergonomics, reduce operator distance from radiation and shorten the learning curve. In this study we aimed to assess the clinical performance and feasibility of the ILY robot during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and combined endoscopic procedures (miniECIRS). Material and methods The RIRS procedures were performed using the ILY robotic arm in 57 adult patients (46 RIRS and 11 miniECIRS) from 2022 to 2023. All procedures were performed in the supine position. Pre-stenting was not the standard of care. Results Turning on and calibration of the device took approximately 100 s. Average draping time was 93 s using original ILY drapes and 47 s using classic drapes designed for C-arm covering. Mean docking time was 73 s in procedures with ureteral access sheath (UAS) and 61 s in procedures without it. The undocking took less than 60 s in every case. Average procedure time was 63 min for RIRS and 55 min for miniECIRS. Endoscopically proven stone-free rate was achieved in 37 (80.4%) RIRS and 10 (90.9%) miniECIRS patients. A total of 17 (36.9%) RIRS and 8 (72.7%) miniECIRS procedures required conversion in order to perform basketing and stone fragments retrieval/transposition. Conclusions The use of ILY robot during endourological procedures is feasible and urologists that are familiar with the device controller do not require extensive training. The time needed for device draping, docking and undocking was approximately 4 minutes. Moreover, use of the robot resulted in satisfactory stone-free rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Since its introduction in 2008, endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) has shown multiple advantages for complex renal stones management. ECIRS provided a higher stone-free rate with lower incidence of severe complications, including blood transfusion, than conventional percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)[1]. The simultaneous utilization of flexible ureteroscopy with PCNL is of diagnostic and therapeutic value. Ureteroscopy evaluates the upper urinary tract for abnormalities, including strictures or stones, allowing cautious planning before tackling the renal stones. Furthermore, flexible ureteroscopy evaluates the calyceal anatomy and visually supervises the calyceal puncture and dilatation of the tract, which helps minimize radiation use. in addition, flexible ureteroscopy gives access to unreachable calyces to ensure better stone clearance and minimize the number of percutaneous accesses needed[2]. Case presentation: A 42-year-old gentleman with a history of recurrent stone formation and previous left open pyelolithotomy presented to our clinic with left dull aching flank pain for one week. Results: Computed tomography scan showed a 5 mm stone in the left proximal ureter with severe back pressure changes in addition to multiple non-obstructing renal stones, with the largest group in the lower calyx measuring collectively 2.5 × 2 cm associated with a distorted renal calyceal system as a result of previous open renal surgery. Given the large renal stone burden with ureteric obstruction, ECIRS was planned. The technique of procedure: The patient was placed in Giusti's position. Examination of the left ureter using a 6.5 F semi-rigid ureteroscope showed a small stone in the left upper ureter, a guide wire was passed to the left kidney under the endoscopic vision, and the stone was grasped using a nitinol basket. A ureteric access sheath was advanced to the left pelvi-ureteric junction under fluoroscopy, followed by backloading the 8.6 WiScope® Single-Use Digital Flexible Ureteroscope. The entire pelvicalyceal system was examined, showing multiple lower calyceal and renal pelvic stones. Under fluoroscopic and endoscopic guidance, lower calyx puncture was done using the triangulation technique. The lower calyceal access was dilated using a balloon catheter up to 30 F, followed by the introduction of the 30 F Amplatz sheath. The 26 F nephroscope showed multiple stones in the lower calyx that were removed with forceps and fragmented using ultrasonic lithotripsy. Multiple stones were seen in a parallel calyx to the puncture and were grasped using a nitinol basket through the flexible ureteroscope and passed to the nephroscope. A final inspection of the renal calyces using the flexible ureteroscope showed no residual stones. A retrograde JJ stent was placed in the renal pelvis. An Argyle tube was placed as a drain before removing the Amplatz sheath. The percutaneous track was inspected using a flexible ureteroscope rough the transparent tube showing no bleeding or organ injury, and fluoroscopy showed no contrast extravasation. The nephrostomy tube was removed 48 hours after the operation, and the patient was discharged home with no perioperative complications. Stone analysis showed calcium oxalate dihydrate.

Aim: To conduct a comparative, nonrandomized study to assess the feasibility of mini-Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery (ECIRS) using supine Mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) access (16F) in Galdakao-Modified Supine Valdivia position for managing proximal large-volume impacted ureteral calculi as ambulatory day-care surgery vis-a-vis standalone ureteroscopy (URS) with push-back PCNL, if needed. The primary aim was to study the outcomes and stone-free rates (SFRs). Secondary aim was to compare the intraoperative and short-term postoperative complications. Materials and Methods: Data of 60 patients undergoing ECIRS (Group 1) from January 2016 to December 2019 were collected prospectively in a nonrandomized fashion from a single center after Ethics Committee approval. A matched-paired analysis was performed with retrospectively collated data of 60 patients undergoing standard URS/pushback PCNL (Group 2) using analysis of variance, Fisher's exact test, and Chi-square test. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Outcomes and Results: Group 1 patients had a significantly shorter procedure time vs Group 2 (42.1 ± 11.2 minutes vs 52.1 ± 13.7 minutes; p < 0.001). Group 1 (59/60) patients had an overall single stage SFR of 98.3%, which was significantly higher than single-stage SFR of 83% in Group 2 (50/60) (p < 0.002). Group 2 patients had a higher incidence of fever (10 vs 4, p = 0.01). However, there were no cases of sepsis in either group. Rest of the complications were comparable for both, as the need for ancillary procedures was significantly higher in Group 2 (10% vs 1.7%, p < 0.001). Patients were discharged on the same day in both groups. Conclusions: The findings of our study suggest that, in large and impacted proximal ureteric stones, combined minimally invasive endoscopic approach offers the best option to render the patient stone free by a single intervention. With better intra- and postoperative outcomes and safety profile, Mini-ECIRS may be considered as an ambulatory procedure in this setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of nonpapillary prone endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) and provide practical tips and tricks for the successful accomplishment of the procedure respecting the anatomical particularities. Material and methods: This study is an analysis of a prospectively collected database including all cases of ECIRS performed between January 2019 and December 2021 in a high-volume tertiary center. All patients underwent the procedure in prone-split leg position. A nonpapillary renal puncture was performed. The used access sheaths were 22Fr or 30Fr. Lithotripsy was performed anterogradely with a dual-energy lithotripter with incorporated suction and retrogradely with holmium Yttrium–Aluminum–Garnet laser. Results: A total of 33 patients were included. The initial stone-free rate (SFR) was 84.8% and the final SFR was 90.9%. The median stone size was 35 mm and 60% of patients had staghorn calculi. The prevalence of renal abnormalities was 21.3%, including 3 cases of horseshoe kidney, 2 cases of malrotation and 2 cases with complete duplicated systems. The median operative time was 47 min. The median hospital stay was 3 days and median hemoglobin loss was 1.2 gr/dL. Overall, the complication rate was 9.1%, all being Grade II complications (n = 2 fever and n = 1 transient bleeding). Conclusions: Nonpapillary prone ECIRS is an effective and safe procedure. Standardization of the procedure is critical to achieve good outcomes. Patients who benefit the most are probably the ones where additional punctures can be avoided using this technique, namely patients with renal abnormalities, incrusted ureteral stents and staghorn stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) has evolved many a fold and was originally described in supine position by Valdivia et al. In this position, the direction of the tract is posterior and thus preserves a low pressure in the renal pelvis, and thereby reduces the risk of fluid absorption and allows spontaneous clearance/washout of fragments by gravity-directed flow of fluid. Supine PCNL is feasible in most situations. It is an important tool for patients who have musculoskeletal abnormalities precluding prone positioning. It gives the surgeon a simultaneous opportunity to do flexible ureteroscopy. Mobility of the kidney may make the puncture difficult. Suctioning of the dust using the suction sheath in supine PCNL makes the procedure more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study aim of this video is to present our stepwise technique of Endoscopic Combined IntraRenal Surgery (ECIRS) for the treatment of large and/or complex urolithiasis. Patients and surgical procedure: Patients under general anesthesia are put in the Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia position. The operating room is preliminarily organized optimizing the working areas; reference lines are drawn, and a unique sterile draping is applied. Preliminary semirigid ureteroscopy followed by flexible ureteroscopy evaluates the dynamic anatomy of the urinary tract and the urolithiasis, inserting a guidewire and performing urine culture followed by retrograde pyelography. An ultrasound-assisted, fluoroscopy-guided, Endovision-checked renal puncture is performed, usually through an inferior-posterior calyx, a through-and-through guidewire applied, the percutaneous tract dilated and stabilized under endoscopic vision when possible. Rigid nephroscopy is used to perform ballistic and/or ultrasonic lithotripsy, progressively evacuating stone fragments. The flexible nephroscope completes stone clearance, moving residual fragments in front of the Amplatz sheath or treating them in situ with laser lithotripsy. Flexible retrograde ureteroscopy has an active role in case of ureteral stones or strictures, stones in calyces parallel to the percutaneous tract or with tight infundibula. Final antegrade and retrograde exploration of the collecting system is performed, a double J with the string inserted and a closed small-bore pyelostomy applied performing final antegrade pyelography. Results: ECIRS includes tips and tricks enhancing its safety and efficacy: preliminary diagnostic retrograde flexible ureteroscopy, Endovision control of the percutaneous access, application of a through-and-through guidewire, bilateral irrigation with optimal vision and fragments’ drainage, retrograde cooperation in stone preparation, clearance and treatment. Conclusions: ECIRS is a comprehensive and versatile approach for the one-step treatment of urolithiasis, where the contribution of retrograde flexible ureteroscopy ensures high stone-free rates with low complication rates, tailoring the procedure on the patient, the urolithiasis and the anatomy of the collecting system.

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]

Ponco Birowo, Putu Angga Risky Raharja, Widi Atmoko, Nur Rasyid Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, 10430, IndonesiaCorrespondence: Ponco BirowoDepartment of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, 10430, IndonesiaTel +62 213923631Fax +62 81 21 3145592Email ponco.birowo@gmail.comAbstract: X-ray-free endoscopic combined intra renal surgery (ECIRS) is a feasible alternative to avoid radiation exposure to both surgical teams and patients, but has not been reported prior. The aim of this report is to present our first-hand experience of performing X-ray-free ECIRS for complex ureteral stone. A 57-year-old female presented with right flank pain, fever, dysuria, and leukocytosis. The computed tomography scan showed right impacted proximal ureteral stone sized 33 ´ 17 mm and grade IV hydronephrosis. Percutaneous nephrostomy was performed immediately. With improvement of clinical symptoms two days after nephrostomy, X-ray-free ECIRS was performed. The patient was placed in a Galdakao-modified supine position. During ureteroscopy (URS), there was noted right ureteral stenosis in the distal part of the stone, which could be passed. However, the stone was impacted and the semi-rigid URS was not able to push it. Therefore, antegrade approach with percutaneous nephrolithotomy was performed. Previous nephrostomy tract was used as percutaneous access. Tract dilatation was performed under direct visualization from the URS. The 28 Fr rigid nephroscope was used during the ECIRS procedure. The stone was fragmented using shock-pulse lithotripters. There was no residual stone or infundibular laceration after the procedure. A 6 Fr double J stent was inserted retrogradely due to ureteral stenosis. There was no complication during and after the procedure. The patient was discharged on post-operative day three. X-ray free ECIRS for complex proximal ureteral stone was possible and showed good results.Keywords: ECIRS, supine position, ureterolithiasis, modified procedure

Significant progress in disposable flexible ureteroscopes has the potential to reduce the risk of endoscope damage and improve cost-effectiveness. New devices such as ClearPetra and Swiss LithoClast ® Trilogy are also expected to improve safety and efficiency in endoscopic surgery for urolithiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decision-making for complex pediatric urinary system stone disease is still a challenge for pediatric urologists. The interest in supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is increasing among centers to achieve high surgical success rates with less morbidity. Despite advanced retrograde intrarenal surgery armamentarium, percutaneous approaches remain the first-line surgical treatment modality for >2 cm and complex renal stones. There are no comparative studies yet in the literature for pediatric endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) In this study, we aimed to contribute to the literature by evaluating the safety and efficacy of ECIRS by comparing it with PCNL. Patients under 18 years of age who underwent PCNL and ECIRS for urinary tract stone disease at our Pediatric Urology department between 2012 and 2024 were included. Preoperative (demographic characteristics, stone characteristics, biochemical parameters), perioperative (duration of surgery, number of accesses, lasing and fluoroscopy times, endoscopic and fluoroscopic stone-free rates) and postoperative (hospital stay, urinary tract infection, complication and radiological stone-free rates) parameters were retrospectively evaluated. A total of 68 children [28 (41%) girls and 40 (59%) boys] aged 5 (0–17) years were included in the study. ECIRS was performed in 19 (28%), supine in 28 (41%) and prone PCNL in 21 (30%) patients. Age (p = 0.029), Guy's stone score (p < 0.001), S.T.O.N.E. (p < 0.001), and Seoul National University Renal Stone Complexity (S-ReSC) scores (p = 0.001) for preoperative parameters were found to be higher in ECIRS group over both PCNL methods (Summary Table). However, Clinical Research Office of the Endourological Society (CROES) score was seen lower for ECIRS group patients compared to other groups (p = 0.028). Surgery time (in favor of supine over prone PCNL), fluoroscopy time (in favor of ECIRS and Supine PCNL over Prone PCNL), preferred laser type (prone PCNL group was mostly performed with holmium laser, whereas other groups were balanced between Holmium and Thulium Fiber Laser) and exit strategy (the preferred exit strategy was DJ Stent in most of the ECIRS patients, whereas nephrostomy tube was used in some of the PCNL group) showed significant difference among the groups as perioperative parameters (p = 0.042, <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, respectively). Surgery time was lower for supine PCNL compared to prone PCNL. For postoperative parameters, stone-free rates, complication rates and urinary tract infections were similar between the 3 groups, while a difference was detected in terms of length of hospital stay in favor of ECIRS over both supine and prone PCNL (p = 0.006). The current trial suggests that stone-free and complication rates of ECIRS and supine PCNL were similar in the pediatric complex stone patients. Although, the stones in the ECIRS group we found to be more complex. Also, ECIRS was superior to PCNL in terms of fluoroscopy exposure and hospital stay. With the widespread use of new generation ureteral access sheaths and flexible ureterorenoscopes, ECIRS may have an important role in treatment of complex pediatric kidney stones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) has evolved over the decades from Standard to Mini to Ultramini PCNL to Micro-perc, with miniaturisation being the dominant theme and supine approach gaining momentum world over.Aim: In literature, miniaturised PCNL with microperc needle access system has raised concerns of intrarenal pressure and has some limitations with its success for larger stones. Our tips and tricks explain how to overcome these pitfalls by utilising the full construct of the needle system to its maximum potential. These will in turn help make the procedure versatile, precise, ergonomical, and enhance a surgeon's experience with improved outcomes for patients especially in large renal stones.Materials and Methods: We describe the limitations of microperc needle access as stated in literature and proposals by the co-authors using microperc for miniaturised access on how to overcome the same.Results: A simplified table describing the limitations and tips and tricks on overcoming these is provided for quick reference.Conclusion: As Technological advancements and techniques for miniaturised access in urolithiasis improve, we believe our suggestions will help surgeons overcome the quoted limitations of microperc needle access for miniaturised PCNL, making this a versatile, safe and efficacious technique even in large and complex stones. A multi centre trial will be the best way to validate the suggestions proposed in this article.

Background: Renal stones are conventionally treated with percutaneous lithotomy (PCNL), with miniPCNL and endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) as preferred choices to reduce morbidity associated with bigger tracts. MicroPCNL is not recommended for larger stones as fragments obscure intraoperative vision and high intrarenal pressure with prolonged operative time increases the risk of sepsis. MicroECIRS overcomes these disadvantages with simultaneous antegrade and retrograde lithotripsy and drainage. Objectives: To provide a step-by-step illustration on how to perform microECIRS. Materials and methods: 1. Patient in supine Barts flank-free with French split leg or Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia (GMSV) position. 2. MicroPCNL with 4.8Fr “All Seeing Optical Needle” (Polydiagnost, Germany). 3. Placement of access sheath with/without suction. 4. Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) with Boston Scientific Lithovue or Olympus URF-V ureteroscope. 5. Lithotripsy using Lumenis 120-watt high-power 200-micron laser with/without Moses fibre. Results: MicroECIRS has multiple advantages. Direct ureteroscope-guided puncture, antegrade visualisation of the tract via the ''all seeing needle'', and miniaturization, ensures safe and accurate percutaneous access even in challenging renal anatomy, hence reducing the risk of bleeding and need for post-operative nephrostomy. Low intrarenal pressure with good active and passive drainage bidirectionally prevents pyelovenous reflux and sepsis, and maintains clear vision to allow precision laser lithotripsy. MicroECIRS is also ergonomic for both antegrade and retrograde surgeons as they can remain seated throughout the operation, avoiding muscle fatigue. Additionally, as the camera head of the microPCNL set is mounted on a separate rod, weight is taken off the handheld part such that the surgeon only maneuvers the lightweight needle. Conclusion: MicroECIRS is a safe, easy, and ergonomic option for larger stone volumes. Achieving single-stage stone clearance with no morbidity translates into shorter hospital stays and a faster return to daily activities, hence making this economically viable.

Modern-day percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) has undergone considerable evolution, mainly driven by the improvement in access techniques, endoscopic instrumentation technology, lithotripsy devices and drainage management. The introduction of the supine and supine-modified positions is also part of this evolution, enabling comfortable and safe procedures from an anaesthesiological point of view, and an easy combined retrograde surgery [Endoscopic Combined IntraRenal Surgery (ECIRS)], allowing tailoring of the procedure on the patient, the dynamic anatomy of the collecting system and the urolithiasis. The conceptual value of ECIRS extends beyond the single diagnostic and active advantages due to the simultaneous contribution of the flexible retrograde ureteroscopy: the merit consists in the promotion of the versatile attitude of the urologist, and in the fulfillment of a personalized stone management. ECIRS has no pretensions of superiority, but for sure is a new safe and effective way of interpreting PNL, in the hands of an experienced surgical team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of the combined approach is to limit the number of percutaneous access tracts for the treatment of staghorn, or complex kidney stones by simultaneous percutaneous antegrade and retrograde ureteroscopy. The other indication is the simultaneous presence of several kidney and ureteral stones or of an impacted pelvic stone. The combination of the two techniques may increase the stone-free rate and decrease the retreatment rate of complex stones compared with percutaneous nephrolithotomy alone. The patient is usually in the modified supine position. METHODOLOGY: These recommendations were developed using two methods: the Clinical Practice Recommendation (CPR) method and the ADAPTE method, depending on whether the question was considered in the European Association of Urology (EAU) recommendations (https://uroweb.org/guidelines/urolithiasis) [EAU Guidelines on urolithiasis. 2022] and their adaptability to the French context., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: The management of simultaneous renal and ureteral calculi usually require staged procedure or change of position from supine lithotomy for ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy to prone for conventional percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). We review our experience with endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) in the management of this condition. Materials and Methods: A total of 43 patients with simultaneous renal and ureteral calculi underwent ECIRS in Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia (GMSV) position from June 2012 to March 2016. Relevant demographic and clinical data were analyzed retrospectively. Clinical outcomes such as stone-free rate, complications, and hospital stay were evaluated. Factors predicting stone-free rate were also evaluated. Results: The mean ureteral stone size was 9.79 - 2.11mm and the mean renal stone size was 28.0 - 11.4mm. All patients with ureteral calculus were stone free after first intervention. The overall immediate renal stone success rate was 81.4%, which increased to 97% after auxiliary procedure. The overall complication rate was 32.5% with majority of complications (86%) classified under Clavien grade 1 and 2. Two patients had Clavien grade 3 complication with no grade 4 or 5 complications. The mean operative room occupation time was 132.09 - 35.3 minutes. The median hospital stay was 6 days (range: 2–31). On analyzing for risk factors, only the number of involved calices by stone was significantly associated with stone-free rate following ECIRS ( p = 0.03). Conclusion: ECIRS is a novel and excellent approach for the treatment of simultaneous renal and ureteral calculi with stone clearance and morbidity profile comparable to traditional prone PCNL. We believe that the advantage provided by this approach to the surgeon, patient, and anesthetist may lead to widespread adaptability of this technique in the management of complex urolithiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) is still the gold-standard treatment for large and/or complex renal stones. Evolution in the endoscopic instrumentation and innovation in the surgical skills improved its success rate and reduced perioperative morbidity. ECIRS (Endoscopic Combined IntraRenal Surgery) is a new way of affording PNL in a modified supine position, approaching antero-retrogradely to the renal cavities, and exploiting the full array of endourologic equipment. ECIRS summarizes the main issues recently debated about PNL. Methods: The recent literature regarding supine PNL and ECIRS has been reviewed, namely about patient positioning, synergy between operators, procedures, instrumentation, accessories and diagnostic tools, step-by-step standardization along with versatility of the surgical sequence, minimization of radiation exposure, broadening to particular and/or complex patients, limitation of post-operative renal damage. Results: Supine PNL and ECIRS are not superior to prone PNL in terms of urological results, but guarantee undeniable anesthesiological and management advantages for both patient and operators. In particular, ECIRS requires from the surgeon a permanent mental attitude to synergy, standardized surgical steps, versatility and adherence to the ongoing clinical requirements. ECIRS can be performed also in particular cases, irrespective to age or body habitus. The use of flexible endoscopes during ECIRS contributes to minimizing radiation exposure, hemorrhagic risk and post-PNL renal damage. Conclusions: ECIRS may be considered an evolution of the PNL procedure. Its proposal has the merit of having triggered the critical analysis of the various PNL steps and of patient positioning, and of having transformed the old static PNL into an updated approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Competing Interests: KT and MB declare fees received from Travere (consulting and funding for a cystinuria patient day). CC and SG have nothing to declare.

Background: Selective renal artery angioembolization is the first treatment option in case of significant bleeding after percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Migration of embolization material into the collecting system is extremely rare. The treatment of this condition is not standardized, but manual extraction, ultrasound fragmentation, and holmium laser lithotripsy have been described. Case presentation: We report the laser extraction of these coils in two patients at our center with two different approaches: retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS). They were young male patients aged 25 and 29 years at the time of surgery, and they were 2-5 years postembolization when they presented to our center for symptoms such as hematuria and passage of small stone fragments. The first patient was managed solely with RIRS, whereas the second patient required ECIRS because of significant bleeding after coil removal, which necessitated hemostasis using a resectoscope. Conclusion: For patients who present with recurrent stones or other symptoms such as pain, hematuria, or flank pain, the diagnosis of migrated embolization coils should be considered. Management can be via the retrograde or percutaneous approach, but in the setting of significant amount of migrated coils or significant bleeding after their removal, percutaneous access may allow more definitive hemostasis., Competing Interests: G.G. is a consultant for Coloplast, Rocamed, Olympus, Quanta System, Boston Scientific, BD-Bard and Cook Medical; S.P. is consultant for Quanta System., (Copyright 2020, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers.)