High Self-Reported Prevalence of Kidney Stones in Trinidad and Tobago: Results of a Cross-Sectional Online Survey.

Introduction No data exist on the prevalence of kidney stone disease in Trinidad and Tobago. Local clinicians have noted that the disease is very common, and this study represents the first attempt to investigate the prevalence of urolithiasis in these islands. Objectives The objective is to estimate the prevalence of kidney stone disease in Trinidad and Tobago and to investigate the epidemiology of the disease. Methods An online survey using the online tool Survey Monkey was distributed among members of the public via instant messaging and social media. The survey captured data relating to the stone status and demographics of respondents. Results 1225 patients completed the survey of whom 46.5% were males and 53.5% were females. Respondents were equally distributed throughout the country. 16.74% of those surveyed indicated that they were currently affected by stones confirmed by imaging. Kidney stones were more common among Trinidadians of East Indian ancestry (20.6% vs 10.6%). Positive correlations were established between kidney stones and the presence of hypertension, diabetes, and gout. Persons with kidney stones were more likely to have a family member with the disease - 45.6% vs 31.4% among those without kidney stones. Conclusion This study demonstrates a high self-reported prevalence of kidney stones in Trinidad and Tobago.

Prognostic Factors for Residual Lithiasis in Patients With Staghorn Calculi Undergoing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in the Maya Region of Yucatan, Mexico: A Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND: Yucatan stands out as the state with the highest prevalence of urolithiasis in Mexico, placing significant demands on healthcare services, such as consultation and surgical intervention. Staghorn calculi are related to recurrent urinary tract infections, and their management is always surgical. The stone-free rate is a parameter used to measure the success of surgery, with residual stones considered those persisting four weeks after surgical management. There are understudied prognostic factors that can predict the success of achieving stone-free status, taking into account the number of stones, their location, and the anatomical variations of the patient's collecting system. The study aims to determine the prognostic factors for residual lithiasis in patients with staghorn calculi treated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy at the High Specialty Regional Hospital of the Yucatan Peninsula. METHODS: A case-control study was performed including 188 patients, aged 18 years or older, and diagnosed with staghorn calculus from January 2022 to June 2023, grouping the patients according to their stone-free rate evidence on postoperative computed tomography. Data were collected from the records of the Urology Department at a high-specialty hospital in Yucatan. The groups were analyzed, aiming to establish an association between preoperative factors and postoperative outcomes measured in terms of stone-free rate. RESULTS: A total of 188 patients with staghorn calculi were included, with a predominance in females (58.5%) and a mean age of 45.4 ± 11.9 years. The most common comorbidity was hypertension (29.8%), and 27.7% had a history of recurrent urinary tract infections. Regarding the Sampaio classification, B1 was the most prevalent in our population with 66 cases (35.1%), while Type A2 was the least common (13.8%). According to what was obtained through the multivariate logistic regression model, the calyceal anatomy Type A1 and A2 were associated with residual lithiasis (p= 0.016 OR: 2.994 CI: 1.223-7.331), and Grade IV was associated with a higher rate of residual lithiasis (p=0.005 CI: 1.586-13.100). A statistically significant association was found between stone burden and the presence of residual lithiasis (p=< 0.001). CONCLUSION: Guy's Score Grade IV showed a higher incidence of residual lithiasis, seemingly associated with stone burden, leading to the conclusion that both factors were categorized as predictors for the development of post-surgical residual lithiasis. Regarding anatomical variations according to Sampaio, it was observed that types A1 and A2 showed a lower rate of stone-free status. Therefore, we also consider them as variables that may influence the achievement of success in endourological management. Personalized patient assessment allows for more accurate prognostic factors, enabling a more comprehensive surgical planning in the presence of staghorn calculi.

Urinary Calcium Is Associated with Serum Sclerostin among Stone Formers.

BACKGROUND: Sclerostin plays an important role in bone metabolism and adipose tissue. Animal studies suggest that sclerostin influences urinary calcium (UCa), but this relationship has not been evaluated in stone formers (SFs). We aimed to investigate the association of UCa with serum sclerostin, bone mineral density (BMD), and body composition among SFs. METHODS: Clinical and laboratorial data were retrieved from medical records. Determinants of UCa were studied using linear regression. RESULTS: A total of 107 SFs (35.8 ± 9.3 years, 54% male) with eGFR 99.8 ± 14.5 mL/min/1.73 were studied. Subjects were split by sex and grouped into tertiles of UCa levels. Men in the highest UCa tertile had higher body mass index (BMI) and serum sclerostin, lower lean mass, and a trend towards higher fat mass. Women in the highest tertile had higher BMI and a trend towards higher serum sclerostin. Hypertension and metabolic syndrome, but not lower BMD, were more prevalent in the highest UCa tertile for both sexes. Sclerostin was positively correlated with fat mass and inversely correlated with lean mass among men, but not among women. BMD corrected for BMI at lumbar spine was inversely associated with UCa in a univariate analysis, but only serum sclerostin, hypertension, and NaCl intake were independent determinants of UCa in the multivariate model. CONCLUSION: The present findings disclose that in addition to hypertension and salt intake, serum sclerostin is associated with urinary calcium in stone formers, suggesting that in addition to the hormones traditionally thought to alter calcium reabsorption in the kidney, sclerostin may play a significant additional role, warranting further investigation.

Factors associated with complications after percutaneous nephrolithotomy: an analysis of 1,066 cases

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify predictive factors for complications after percutaneous nephrolithotomy. METHODS: We prospectively analyzed patients who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy from June 2011 to October 2018. The association of preoperative and intraoperative factors with the presence of complications was assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. The significance level was set at p<0.05. RESULTS: A total of 1,066 surgeries were evaluated, and the overall complication rate was 14.9%. In all, 105 (9.8%) surgeries were performed in the prone position, and 961 (90.2%) were performed in the supine position. Univariate analysis demonstrated that surgical position, upper pole puncture, surgical time, number of tracts, and Guys Stone Score were associated with complications. In multivariate analyses, prone position (odds ratio [OR] 2.10; p=0.003), surgical time ≥90 min (OR 1.76; p=0.014), upper pole puncture (OR 2.48; p<0.001), and Guys Stone Score 3 or 4 (OR 1.90; p=0.033) were independent predictive factors for complications after percutaneous nephrolithotomy. CONCLUSION: Performing percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the supine position, in under 90 min, and avoiding upper pole punctures may reduce complications during the treatment of large kidney stones.

Vascular Calcification Is Associated with Fetuin-A and Cortical Bone Porosity in Stone Formers.

Background: Nephrolithiasis has been associated with bone loss and vascular calcification (VC), reflecting abnormal extraosseous calcium deposition. Fetuin-A (Fet-A) acts as a potent inhibitor of ectopic mineralization. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of VC in stone formers (SF) and non-stone formers (NSF) and to investigate potential determinants of VC among SF, including circulating levels of Fet-A and bone microarchitecture parameters. Methods: Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) was assessed using available computed tomography in SF and in age-, sex-, and BMI-matched NSF (potential living kidney donors). Serum Fet-A was measured in stored blood samples from SF. Bone microarchitecture parameters were obtained as a post hoc analysis of a cross-sectional cohort from young SF evaluated by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT). Results: A total of 62 SF (38.0 [28.0−45.3] years old) and 80 NSF (40.0 [37.0−45.8] years old) were included. There was no significant difference in AAC scores between SF and NSF. However, when dividing SF according to mean AAC score, below <5.8% (n = 33) or above ≥5.8% (n = 29), SF with higher AAC presented significantly higher BMI and tibial cortical porosity (Ct.Po) and significantly lower serum HDL, klotho, Fet-A, and eGFR. Urinary calcium did not differ between groups, but fractional excretion of phosphate was higher in the former. Upon multivariate regression, BMI, serum Fet-A, and tibial Ct.Po remained independently associated with AAC. Conclusions: This study suggests an association between reduced circulating Fet-A levels and increased bone Ct.Po with VC in SF.

Descripción de las características sociodemográficas y clínicas de pacientes con litiasis renal

Contexto: los cálculos renales son cúmulos o depósitos de minerales que se forman en los cálices, la pelvis renal o el tracto urinario. Objetivo: describir las características sociodemográficas y clínicas de una muestra de pacientes con litiasis renal, mayores de 18 años. Metodología: estudio observacional descriptivo de pacientes atendidos en una consulta ambulatoria de Nefrología en Manizales en el periodo 2010-2020, donde se contaba con estudios en sangre, orina de 24 horas y estudio fisicoquímico del cálculo, además de datos sociodemográficos y clínicos relacionados. Se fragmentaron en grupos, de acuerdo con los hallazgos encontrados en los cálculos disponibles, dividiéndose en oxalato de calcio en su totalidad, calcio mixto con otro compuesto y el último grupo de cálculo no calcio. Resultados: se identificaron 54 pacientes con nefrolitiasis, de los cuales 14 de ellos fueron excluidos. Finalmente, 40 pacientes cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. La mediana de edad fue 52,5 años, predominio del sexo masculino (55 %), donde se encontró en 20,5 % hiperuricemia, hipercalcemia en 17,6 %, hiperfosfatemia en 5 % e hipercaliemia en 7,5 %. En orina se encontró: hipocitraturia en el 71,1 %, seguido de hipercalciuria (12,5 %), hiperuricosuria (10 %) e hiperoxaluria (5 %). En 17 de los pacientes (42,5 %) se logró el estudio de la composición fisicoquímica del cálculo, en ellos la variedad de calcio mixto fue la más frecuente (55,5 %). Conclusiones: este estudio describe las características de pacientes con cálculos renales, mostrando que la mayoría tiene alteraciones metabólicas asociadas a nefrolitiasis, siendo la hipocitraturia el hallazgo más frecuente y que la mayoría de los cálculos tiene calcio en su composición.

Background: Kidney stones are accumulations or mineral deposits that form in the calyces, renal pelvis, or urinary tract. Purpose: To describe the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of a sample of patients with kidney stones over 18 years of age. Methodology: Descriptive observational study. Patients treated in an outpatient nephrology and urology consultation in Manizales during the years 2010 to 2020, in which there were studies in blood, 24-hour urine, and a physicochemical study of the stone, as well as related sociodemographic and clinical data. They were divided into groups, according to the findings found in the available stones, dividing into calcium oxalate in its entirety, calcium mixed with another compound and the last group of non-calcium stone. Results: 54 patients with nephrolithiasis were identified, 14 of them were excluded. Finally, 40 patients met the inclusion criteria. Median age was 52.5 years, male predominance (55%), hyperuricemia was found in 20.5%, hypercalcemia in 17.6%, hyperphosphatemia in 5% and hyperkalemia in 7.5%. In urine, hypocitraturia was found in 71.1%, followed by hypercalciuria (12.5%), hyperuricosuria (10%), and hyperoxaluria (5%). In 17 patients (42.5%) there was a result of the physicochemical composition of the stone, in them the mixed calcium variety was the most frequent (55.5%). Conclusions: This study describes the characteristics of patients with kidney stones, showing that the majority have metabolic alterations associated with nephrolithiasis, hypocitraturia being the most frequent finding, and that most stones have calcium in their composition.

High Prevalence of Hypocitraturia in Stone Formers from the Maya Region of Yucatan, Mexico.

BACKGROUND: Urinary Stone Disease (USD) arises from an interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Urinary metabolic abnormalities are well described as risk factors. In Mexico, the Maya region holds the highest prevalence of USD. Treatment of these abnormalities lowers the risk of recurrences. AIM: Assess the underlying metabolic abnormalities of patients with USD to provide a rationale to lead further prevention strategies. METHODS: Clinical and demographical data from patients coming to the Stone Clinic were prospectively collected along with a 24 h urinary panel to identify metabolic abnormalities. All participants signed consent and the study was approved by the hospital's institutional review board. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients were included, with a mean age of 47.2 ± 13 years, 75.4% were female. A positive family history of stones was observed in 40 and 87.3% were overweight/obese. The frequency of hypocitraturia, hypercalciuria, hypomagnesuria, hyperoxaluria, and hyperuricosuria was 91.3, 68.5, 42.1, 36.5, and 26.6%, respectively. Median urinary citrate was 79.5 (37.5-160) mg/24 h and was inversely correlated to glycemia. Urine Calcium/Creatinine index was correlated with Hounsfield units (HU) (p = 0.01). Oxalate was correlated with HU and stone burden. Interestingly, dietary distribution of macro- and micronutrients were similar between groups. Patients with a single kidney had lower citrate and higher urinary calcium. CONCLUSIONS: Interestingly, a shortage of inhibitors such as citrate and magnesium are highly prevalent in patients with USD from the Maya region and seems to be influenced by other metabolic conditions as malnutrition next to the genetic component.

Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery Versus Miniaturized Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy for Kidney Stones >1cm: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Trials.

CONTEXT: Although miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) are both options for treating >1cm kidney stones, controversies exist on whether one is more effective and safer than the other. OBJECTIVE: To systematically appraise randomized trials comparing the effectiveness and safety of mPCNL and RIRS for treating >1cm kidney stones. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A systematic search on PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted in August 2020 following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA). Randomized trials comparing mPCNL and RIRS for >1cm kidney stones, and reporting stone-free rate (SFR), hemoglobin drop, transfusion rate, length of hospital stay (LOS), and/or complications, were included. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Eight studies compared mPCNL and RIRS, but one was not included due to its high risk of bias. SFR was higher for mPCNL (RR: 1.06 [95% coefficient interval {CI}, 1.01-1.10], p=0.008). Hemoglobin drop was higher for mPCNL (mean difference [MD]: 0.35 [95% CI, 0.05-0.65] g/dl, p=0.02); however, transfusion rates were similar (p=0.44). Complication rate was similar between mPCNL and RIRS (p=0.39), and the LOS was higher for mPCNL (MD: 1.11 [95% CI, 0.06-2.16] d, p=0.04). A subgroup analysis of lower pole stones showed that SFR was higher for mPCNL (RR: 1.09 [95% CI, 1.00-1.19], p=0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Both approaches are effective and safe. Among these approaches, mPCNL has a higher SFR than RIRS for overall >1cm renal and lower pole stones, but longer LOS, and a higher hemoglobin drop that does not translate into higher transfusion rates. Complications are comparable. PATIENT SUMMARY: Randomized trials have evaluated whether miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) or retrograde intrarenal surgery is more effective and safer for treating >1cm stones. After comparing the stone-free rate, hemoglobin drop, transfusion rate, length of hospital stay, and complications between both the approaches, mPCNL was found to be slightly more effective, but both were equally safe.

Tranexamic acid in patients with complex stones undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy: a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial.

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 undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, 192 patients with complex kidney stone (Guy's Stone Scores III-IV) were prospectively enrolled and randomised (1:1 ratio) to receive either one dose of tranexamic acid (1 g) or a placebo at the time of anaesthetic 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 randomised to the tranexamic acid group had a higher immediate and 3-month SFR compared with those in the placebo group (29% vs 14.7%, odds ratio [OR] 2.37, 95% CI 1.15-4.87, P = 0.019, and 46.2% vs 28.1%, OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.20-4.02, P = 0.011, respectively). Faster haemoglobin recovery occurred in patients in the tranexamic acid 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 contribute to better stone clearance rate and faster haemoglobin recovery without increasing complications. A single dose of tranexamic acid at the time of anaesthetic induction could be considered standard clinical practice for patients with complex kidney stones undergoing PCNL.

Impact of the adherence to medical treatment on the main urinary metabolic disorders in patients with kidney stones.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of the adherence to medical treatment on urinary parameters in the 24-h metabolic study of patients with kidney stones. METHODS: A retrospective, longitudinal, descriptive, and observational study was carried out by reviewing the hospital electronic medical record from 2014 to 2018. The adherence to drug treatment was measured 6 months after its initiation, and the numerical values of the metabolic studies were compared. Wilcoxon tests were performed to compare the difference before and after treatment. RESULTS: Ninety patients were evaluated, with 73.3% of adherence. The 180-day overall adherence rate was 61.2% in patients treated with a single drug and 85.4% in patients treated with multiple drugs. There is a statistically significant increase in citrate levels in patients with good adherence in comparison with non-adherent patients (p=0.031 vs. p=0.528). CONCLUSIONS: Medical treatment and dietary measures in patients with kidney stones have an initial impact at 6 months on the values of the main urinary metabolic alterations that predispose to calculi formation; the most significant is seen in those patients with adherence to medical treatment for hypocitraturia.

Is extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) still suitable for >1.5 cm intrarenal stones? Data analysis of 1902 SWLs.

PURPOSE: According to the American Urological Association and European Association of Urology guidelines, shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) is the least-invasive treatment option for kidney stones smaller than 2 cm. However, it is well known that SWL stone-free rates (SFR) decline as stone size increases. We sought to evaluate whether the size limit of 1.5 cm could be a better predictor of success after a single SWL session than current recommendations. METHODS: Data from an SWL-dedicated center were prospectively scrutinized according to stone locations and sizes. Information on patients' demography, lithotripsy parameters, and outcomes was evaluated by multivariate analysis among 1902 SWLs. RESULTS: The overall SFR was 70.8% (1347/1902). SFRs according to stone size were <1 cm: 73.8% (825/1118), 1-1.5 cm: 70.4% (401/569) and >1.5 cm: 56.2% (121/215); and according to calculi location were lower pole (LP) 64.4% (398/618), mid pole 73.8% (339/459), upper pole 73.8% (273/370) and renal pelvis 74.1% (337/455). Multivariate analysis revealed better SFR independent better SFR in <1.5 cm (p < 0.01), and non-LP stones (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: SWL is an effective treatment modality for kidney stones. The single session reached up to 74.8% SFRs (range 70.8%-74.8%) when indicated for intrarenal non LP stones smaller than 1.5 cm. Patients with stones >1.5 cm or >1 cm located in the LP should be counseled on the lower SFRs after a single SWL session.

The Significance of Asymptomatic Kidney Stones as a Predictive Factor for Sepsis in Critically Ill Older Adults.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of kidney stones (KSs) on critically ill older adults (CIOA) staying longer than 24 hours in the ICU. Sepsis is one of the leading causes of mortality for ICU patients. KS disease is a well-known risk factor for bacteriuria and urinary tract infection. METHODS: A total of 256 CIOA were initially evaluated from April 2017 through February 2019. Patients who had urinary ultrasonography and computed tomography within 12 months prior to ICU admission were included. Patients with an additional urological pathology, under the age of 65 years, and with ICU stays of 24 hours or less were excluded. Consequently, 151 patients were eligible and constituted the study group. These patients were divided into 2 subgroups, according to the presence or absence of KSs. These 2 groups were compared with regard to urine culture (UC) results, presence of urosepsis, and septic shock. RESULTS: The mean age was 80.66 (±7.76) years. There were 18 patients with KSs and 133 without KSs. A total of 71 patients had a positive UC. Repeat UC positivity (p = 0.002) and resistant microorganisms (p = 0.034) were significantly more frequent in the KS group. The incidences of both urosepsis (p<0.001) and septic shock (p<0.001) were also significantly higher in patients with KSs. CONCLUSION: The presence of KSs in CIOA is frequently associated with urosepsis and septic shock. Large prospective trials are required to evaluate the impact of KSs on the prognosis of patients in the ICU.

Thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics in nephrolithiasis / Diuréticos tiazídicos e tiazídicos-like na nefrolitíase

Abstract Thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics are widely used for the management of hypercalciuria among stone-forming patients. Although the effects of different thiazides should be relatively similar in terms of prevention of stone recurrence, their potency and side effects may differ. However, there is scarce data concerning the metabolic and bone effects of these agents among recurrent nephrolithiasis patients with hypercalciuria. The aim of this update article was to compare our experience in the use of thiazide and thiazide- like diuretics with that of the current literature, concerning their anticalciuric properties and consequent reduction of recurrent stone formation. Their impact on bone mass and potential side effects were also discussed.

Resumo Diuréticos tiazídicos e tiazídicos-like são amplamente usados para o tratamento da hipercalciúria em pacientes com formação de cálculos. Embora os efeitos dos diferentes tiazídicos devam ser relativamente semelhantes em termos de prevenção da recorrência do cálculo, sua potência e efeitos colaterais podem ser diferentes. No entanto, há poucos dados sobre os efeitos metabólicos e ósseos desses agentes em pacientes com nefrolitíase recorrente com hipercalciúria. O objetivo deste artigo de atualização foi comparar nossa experiência quanto ao uso de tiazídicos e tiazídicos-like com a publicada na literatura atual, no que diz respeito às suas propriedades anticalciúricas e consequente redução da formação de cálculos recorrentes. Discutimos também seu impacto na massa óssea e potenciais efeitos colaterais.

Metabolic risk factors in children with kidney stone disease: an update.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of kidney stones in children has significantly increased in the past few decades, with concomitant increased morbidity and healthcare costs worldwide. Assessing metabolic risk factors is essential for diagnosis and specific treatment. The objective of this retrospective study is to identify the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of children under 17 years of age, as well as the metabolic risk factors of nephrolithiasis. METHODS: A total of 300 children with kidney stone disease were included to undergo several clinical tests using a standardized protocol. RESULTS: The mean age was 11.2 years, and the male:female ratio was 1.15:1.0. Biochemical abnormalities were found in 89.3% of all cases. A single urine metabolic risk factor was present in 52.6% (n = 141) of the patients, and multiple risk factors were present in 36.7% (n = 106). Idiopathic hypercalciuria (alone or in combination) and hypocitraturia (alone or in combination) were the most frequent risk factors identified in 47.0% and 39.6% of these patients, respectively. Renal colic and/or unspecified abdominal pain were the most frequent forms of presentation (76.9%), followed by hematuria in 64.4% with 97.5% of stones located in the upper urinary tract. A positive family history in first-degree and second-degree relatives was found in 64.8% of boys and 61.8% of girls. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that specific urinary metabolic risk factors can be found in most children with kidney stones, with hypercalciuria and hypocitraturia being the most common diagnoses. Graphical abstract .

Litiasis renal en Costa Rica: bioquímica y epidemiología / Nephrolithiasis in Costa Rica: Biochemistry and Epidemiology

Resumen Objetivo: La litiasis renal es la tercera enfermedad urológica más común, siendo una causa considerable de morbilidad por la sintomatología que presenta. Aunque es conocida en otros países, incluyendo Latinoamérica, en el nuestro no disponemos de informes sobre la situación, razón por la cual este estudio pretende establecer la composición bioquímica diferencial de los cálculos renales más frecuentes, para así distinguir epidemiológicamente si existen variables entre las edades y sexo. Métodos: Se encontraron 291 casos de pacientes cuyas muestras fueron referidas al centro en el periodo de 1 octubre de 2015 al 30 de septiembre de 2017. Se realizaron descripciones de las variables clínico-biológicas, y comparaciones estadísticas entre la composición bioquímica de los cálculos renales y edades descritas, para encontrar diferencias entre sexos. Resultados: Hay una mayor prevalencia de litiasis renal en hombres (62 %), en comparación con las mujeres (38 %). La mediana de presentación de la litiasis renal fue de 45 años. Se presentó en la quinta década de edad en hombres y en la cuarta década de edad en mujeres. Los compuestos oxalato de calcio, carbonato de apatita, ácido úrico y estruvita fueron los más prevalentes en litiasis renal. Conclusión: La situación de la litiasis renal en Costa Rica fue similar a la descrita en otros países. Se observa un mayor rango etario en la distribución de la enfermedad en ambos sexos. La enfermedad en el país representa un problema multifactorial en el cual las comorbilidades y los factores dietarios propician la litiasis renal.

Summary Aim: Kidney stones are the third most common urological disease, after urinary infection and prostatic disease. It is a considerable cause of morbility due to the symptoms it presents, causing many consults to the health system. This disease is well known in other countries, including Latinoamerica, but in our country there is no information available about our statistics. This study pretends to stablish the frequency of differential and biochemical composition of kidney stones in our population and distinguish differences between age and gender. Methods: 291 cases whose kidney stones samples were referred to our center in the period from October first, 2015 to September 30th, 2017. Description of the clinical and biological variables was made, and statistical comparisons were made in terms of biochemical composition, gender and age to find differences. Results: There was a higher prevalence of kidney stones in men (62%) compared to women (38%). The median age of presentation of the disease was 45 years. It occurs in the fifth decade of life in 80 Acta méd costarric Vol 62 (2), abril-junio 2020men and the forth decade in women. The compounds calcium oxalate, apatite carbonate, uric acidand struvite were the most prevalent among the patients. Conclusion: The situation of renal lithiasis in Costa Rica is similar to that described in other countries. A greater age range was observed in the distribution of the disease in both sexes. The disease in the country represents a multifactorial problem in which comorbidities and dietary factors favor renal lithiasis.

Quality of life in patients with kidney stones: translation and validation of the Spanish Wisconsin Stone Quality of Life Questionnaire.

The Spanish version of the Wisconsin Stone Quality of Life (WISQOL) questionnaire was developed and validated. A double-back translation of the WISQOL was conducted and syntactic amendments were made, resulting in the Spanish version of the WISQOL (S-WISQOL) which then went through a readability analysis. Stone formers from two hospitals in Mexico (Merida and Monterrey) filled in the S-WISQOL and the Short Form 36 (SF36). Convergent validity was assessed by the correlation of both questionnaires. Internal consistency was evaluated by Cronbach's α, and external validity by comparing between centers. The impact of clinical settings on patients' health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores was tested. Each hospital's institutional review board approved the project and informed consent was obtained from all participants. A total of 87 Spanish-speakers patients completed the S-WISQOL and SF36 and a good correlation was found between both (r = 0.75, p < 0.001). S-WISQOL readability was rated as "easy". Patients from Merida had longer median duration (years) with stones, more stone-related procedures, and hospitalizations, and scored lower on WISQOL (p = 0.006). Internal consistency was good as Cronbach's α coefficients ranged between acceptable and excellent. Stone-related admissions and duration of stones were inversely correlated with S-WISQOL score (- 0.254 and - 0.283, respectively; p < 0.005) but not to SF36. The S-WISQOL is an internally consistent, reliable, and valid instrument to assess HRQOL in Spanish-speaking patients with kidney stones. The S-WISQOL is generalizable as demonstrated by good external validity among centers. S-WISQOL scores can be added as an outcome for kidney stone treatments.

Dietary Recommendations for Bariatric Patients to Prevent Kidney Stone Formation.

Bariatric surgery (BS) is one of the most common and efficient surgical procedures for sustained weight loss but is associated with long-term complications such as nutritional deficiencies, biliary lithiasis, disturbances in bone and mineral metabolism and an increased risk of nephrolithiasis, attributed to urinary metabolic changes resultant from low urinary volume, hypocitraturia and hyperoxaluria. The underlying mechanisms responsible for hyperoxaluria, the most common among all metabolic disturbances, may comprise increased intestinal oxalate absorption consequent to decreased calcium intake or increased dietary oxalate, changes in the gut microbiota, fat malabsorption and altered intestinal oxalate transport. In the current review, the authors present a mechanistic overview of changes found after BS and propose dietary recommendations to prevent the risk of urinary stone formation, focusing on the role of dietary oxalate, calcium, citrate, potassium, protein, fat, sodium, probiotics, vitamins D, C, B6 and the consumption of fluids.

Factores predictores del estado libre de cálculos en la primera ureteroscopia flexible con litotricia láser.

INTRODUCTION: Flexible ureteroscopy and laser fragmentation (FURSL) is a minimally invasive modality for surgical treatment of renal stones. Inadequate selection of patients for this treatment generates a cost-effectiveness unbalance. OBJECTIVE: To know the stone-free rate predictors in a single surgical time in patients undergoing FURSL. METHOD: Retrospective cohort of patients undergoing FURSL. Global and gender-categorized univariate and multivariate (logistic regression) analyses were performed to identify stone-free predictors at first FURSL. RESULTS: Stone-free rate at first FURSL was 73.62%. Predictors in males were patient age and stone size, density and multiplicity; in females, body mass index and multiplicity of stones. CONCLUSIONS: Stone-free rate predictors at first FURSL are different in males and females. Women with overweight and obesity probably have easy-to-fragment and easy-to-extract stones associated with uric acid.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La ureteroscopia flexible con litotricia láser (URSLL) es una modalidad mínimamente invasiva de tratamiento quirúrgico de cálculos renales. La selección inadecuada de pacientes para este procedimiento genera un desbalance de costo-efectividad. OBJETIVO: Conocer los factores predictores de estado libre de litos en un solo tiempo quirúrgico en pacientes sometidos a URSLL. MÉTODO: Cohorte retrospectiva de pacientes sometidos a URSLL. Se realizó un análisis univariado y multivariado (regresión logística) de los predictores de estado libre de cálculos en la primera URSLL, global y categorizado por sexo. RESULTADOS: EL estado libre de cálculos en la primera URSLL fue de 73.62 %. Los predictores de estado libre de cálculos en hombres fueron edad y tamaño, densidad y multiplicidad del cálculo; en las mujeres, el índice de masa corporal y la multiplicidad del cálculo. CONCLUSIONES: Los factores pronósticos de estado libre de cálculos en la primera URSLL son distintos en hombres y mujeres. Las mujeres con obesidad y sobrepeso probablemente tengan cálculos de fácil fragmentación y extracción asociados con ácido úrico.

Factores predictores del estado libre de cálculos en la primera ureteroscopia flexible con litotricia láser / Predictors of stone-free status in the first flexible ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy

Resumen Introducción: La ureteroscopia flexible con litotricia láser (URSLL) es una modalidad mínimamente invasiva de tratamiento quirúrgico de cálculos renales. La selección inadecuada de pacientes para este procedimiento genera un desbalance de costo-efectividad. Objetivo: Conocer los factores predictores de estado libre de litos en un solo tiempo quirúrgico en pacientes sometidos a URSLL. Método: Cohorte retrospectiva de pacientes sometidos a URSLL. Se realizó un análisis univariado y multivariado (regresión logística) de los predictores de estado libre de cálculos en la primera URSLL, global y categorizado por sexo. Resultados: EL estado libre de cálculos en la primera URSLL fue de 73.62 %. Los predictores de estado libre de cálculos en hombres fueron edad y tamaño, densidad y multiplicidad del cálculo; en las mujeres, el índice de masa corporal y la multiplicidad del cálculo. Conclusiones: Los factores pronósticos de estado libre de cálculos en la primera URSLL son distintos en hombres y mujeres. Las mujeres con obesidad y sobrepeso probablemente tengan cálculos de fácil fragmentación y extracción asociados con ácido úrico.

Abstract Introduction: Flexible ureteroscopy and laser fragmentation (FURSL) is a minimally invasive modality for surgical treatment of renal stones. Inadequate selection of patients for this treatment generates a cost-effectiveness unbalance. Objective: To know the stone-free rate predictors in a single surgical time in patients undergoing FURSL. Method: Retrospective cohort of patients undergoing FURSL. Global and gender-categorized univariate and multivariate (logistic regression) analyses were performed to identify stone-free predictors at first FURSL. Results: Stone-free rate at first FURSL was 73.62%. Predictors in males were patient age and stone size, density and multiplicity; in females, body mass index and multiplicity of stones. Conclusions: Stone-free rate predictors at first FURSL are different in males and females. Women with overweight and obesity probably have easy-to-fragment and easy-to-extract stones associated with uric acid.

Laparoscopic and robotic surgery for stone disease.

Treatment for stone disease has evolved drastically during the past 3-4 decades. Ureteroscopy, percutaneous nephrolithotomy along with SWL, provides the means to treat practically all urinary tract stones with minimal invasion to the patients. However, for complex stone case scenarios where open surgery is being considered, a less invasive and better tolerated option such as laparoscopy (robot assisted or not) can be performed. The present manuscript reviews role of laparoscopic and robotic surgery in treating urinary tract stones.