Impacto del uso de la vaina de acceso ureteral durante la ureteroscopia flexible: estudio comparativo de eficacia y seguridad / Impact of ureteric access sheath use during flexible ureteroscopy: A comparative study on efficacy and safety

Objetivos Este estudio evalúa el impacto del uso de una vaina de acceso ureteral (VAU) durante la ureteroscopia flexible (URSf) para el tratamiento de la litiasis urinaria, centrándose en resultados como la tasa libre de litiasis, el tiempo quirúrgico y las complicaciones. Métodos Este estudio prospectivo y aleatorizado se llevó a cabo en el Hospital de Badr en la Universidad de Helwan y en los hospitales de la Universidad de Ain Shams, desde agosto de 2021 hasta agosto de 2022. Los pacientes se aleatorizaron sistemáticamente a 2 grupos (URSf con VAU: 33 pacientes y URSf sin VAU: 31 pacientes), y se sometieron a evaluaciones preoperatorias y postoperatorias, incluyendo pruebas de laboratorio y de imagen. Se controlaron los posibles riesgos asociados al procedimiento, como el fracaso en el acceso al cálculo, el dolor, el sangrado y la sepsis. Resultados Se observó que los 2 grupos eran comparables en cuanto a características demográficas o hallazgos preoperatorios de la litiasis (p>0,05 para todos). Sin embargo, el tiempo quirúrgico fue menor en el grupo tratado sin VAU (79,4±15,3 vs. 90,4±16,7min en el grupo tratado con VAU; p=0,008). Las tasas de complicaciones intraoperatorias, incluidos el fracaso del acceso, la interrupción de la operación, las lesiones ureterales y el sangrado, fueron comparables en ambos grupos (p>0,05). No se observaron diferencias significativas en cuanto a la tasa libre de litiasis postoperatoria (78,8 vs. 71,0%; p=0,305) y el tamaño litiásico residual medio (2,7±3,5 vs. 3,1±3,1mm; p=0,687). Conclusiones El presente estudio sugiere que URSf sin VAU puede ofrecer una opción eficiente e igualmente efectiva para el tratamiento de los cálculos renales y de uréter superior. Sin embargo, se necesitan más estudios con muestras de mayor tamaño y periodos de seguimiento más largos para validar estos resultados y establecer indicaciones más precisas para este procedimiento. (AU)

Objectives This study evaluates the impact of using an access sheath (AS) during flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) for urolithiasis treatment, focusing on outcomes such as stone-free rate, operation time, and complications. Methods This prospective, randomized study was carried out at Badr Hospital, Helwan University, and Ain Shams University hospitals from August 2021 to August 2022. Patients were systematically randomized into two groups (fURS with AS: 33 patients and without AS: 31 patients) and underwent preoperative and postoperative assessments, including lab tests and imaging. Possible procedure-associated risks, such as failed stone access, pain, bleeding, and sepsis, were monitored. Results The two groups were found to be comparable in terms of demographic characteristics or preoperative stone findings (P>.05 for all). However, operation duration was shorter in the No Sheath group (79.4±15.3minutes vs. 90.4±16.7minutes in the Sheath group, P=.008). Intraoperative complication rates, including failed access, operation termination, ureteric injury, and bleeding, were comparable in both groups (P>.05). Postoperative stone-free rates (78.8% vs. 71.0%, P=.305) and mean residual stone size (2.7±3.5mm vs. 3.1±3.1mm, P=.687) showed no significant differences. Conclusions The present study suggests that fURS without an access sheath may offer an efficient and equally effective option for managing upper ureteric and renal stones. However, more studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are required to validate these findings and to establish more precise indications for this approach. (AU)

Post-Ureteroscopic Lesion Scale: limitaciones en su aplicabilidad clínica / Post-Ureteroscopic Lesion Scale to determine ureteral wall damage, not so easy to employ

Objetivo Analizar el nivel de concordancia de la Post-Ureteroscopic Lesion Scale (PULS), y examinar las consecuencias de su aplicación en la práctica clínica con datos estadísticos más fiables que los utilizados en el trabajo original. Métodos Se realizaron 14 ureteroscopias (URS) y 14 micro-ureteroscopias (micro-URS) en 14 cerdos hembra. Todos los procedimientos se grabaron en vídeo y se realizó un análisis anatomopatológico en cada uréter. Dieciséis urólogos (9 endourólogos y 7 urólogos generales) y 4 médicos internos residentes evaluaron las lesiones ureterales según la escala PULS, con grados 0, 1 y ≥2. La concordancia se calculó mediante porcentajes, el Coeficiente W de Kendall, el índice kappa de Fleiss y el alfa de Krippendorff. La concordancia entre evaluadores se calculó con la Correlación de Spearman y el Coeficiente kappa de Cohen. Resultados El porcentaje de concordancia fue del 11,1%. Los coeficientes se clasificaron como bajos o muy bajos, y encontramos una mayor concordancia entre los evaluadores más inexpertos. Por otro lado, no hubo acuerdo entre el 50% de los evaluadores. Conclusiones La baja concordancia entre evaluadores, la especificidad de la PULS y la correlación clínico/patológica sugieren dificultades del uso de esta escala y una curva de aprendizaje probablemente larga. (AU)

Objective To analyze the level of agreement of the Post-Ureteroscopic Lesion Scale (PULS) and the consequences on its application in clinical practice with more reliable statistical data than the one used in the original work. Methods 14 URS and 14 micro-URS were performed in 14 female porcine model. All the procedures were video recorded and an anatomopathological analysis was performed in each ureter. Sixteen urologists (9 endourologists and 7 general urologists) and 4 residents evaluated the ureteral lesions according to the PULS, with degrees 0, 1 and ≥2. The agreement was calculated with percentages, Kendall's W coefficient and the indicators Fleiss’ Kappa and Krippendorff's Alpha, while the inter-rater agreement was calculated with Spearman's correlation and Cohen's Kappa. Results The percent of agreement was 11.1%. The coefficients were likewise classified as low or very low, with the greatest agreement found among the inexperienced. Also, 50% of the raters did not agree with the rest. Conclusions The low inter-rater agreement, the specificity of the PULS and the clinical-pathological correlation suggests that this scale is not simple, and probably has a long learning curve. (AU)

Evolución y perfeccionamiento de técnicas endourológicas (urs y nlpc) sin fluoroscopia. Revisión sistemática de la literatura / Has fluoroless endourology (URS and PCNL) come of age? Evidence from a comprehensive literature review

Introducción La radiación es una herramienta fundamental en las técnicas de imagen ampliamente utilizadas en el manejo de los cálculos renales. Entre las medidas básicas que suelen adoptar los endourólogos para reducir la cantidad de exposición a la radiación, se encuentran el principio As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) —basado en reducir el uso de la radiación tanto como sea razonablemente posible— y el empleo de técnicas sin fluoroscopia. Se realizó una revisión exploratoria de la literatura para investigar el éxito y la seguridad de la ureteroscopia (URS) o la nefrolitotomía percutánea (NLPC) sin fluoroscopia para el tratamiento de los cálculos renales. Métodos Se realizó una revisión de la literatura mediante la búsqueda en las bases de datos bibliográficas PubMed, EMBASE y la biblioteca Cochrane, y se incluyeron en la revisión 14 artículos completos de acuerdo con las directrices de la declaración PRISMA. Resultados De un total de 2.535 procedimientos analizados, se realizaron 823 URS sin fluoroscopia frente a 556 URS con fluoroscopia, y 734 NLPC sin fluoroscopia frente a 277 NLPC con fluoroscopia. La tasa libre de cálculos (TLC) de la URS sin fluoroscopia frente a la guiada por fluoroscopia fue del 85,3 y el 77%, respectivamente (p=0,2), y las TLC de la NLPC sin fluoroscopia frente al grupo con fluoroscopia fueron del 83,8 y el 84,6%, respectivamente (p=0,9). Las complicaciones globales Clavien-Dindo I/II y III/IV para los procedimientos con y sin fluoroscopia fueron del 3,1 (n=71), 8,5 (n=131), 1,7 (n=23) y 3% (n=47), respectivamente. Solo 5 estudios informaron de un fracaso del abordaje realizado con fluoroscopia, con un total de 30 (1,3%) procedimientos fallidos. Conclusión Durante los últimos años han surgido diversas maneras de aplicar el protocolo ALARA en endourología en un esfuerzo por proteger tanto a los pacientes como al personal sanitario. ... (AU)

Introduction Radiation via the use of imaging is a key tool in management of kidney stones. Simple measures are largely taken by the endourologists to implement the ‘As Low As Reasonably Achievable’ (ALARA) principle, including the use of fluoroless technique. We performed a scoping literature review to investigate the success and safety of fluoroless ureteroscopy (URS) or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedures for the treatment of KSD. Methods A literature review was performed searching bibliographic databases PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane library, and 14 full papers were included in the review in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Results Of the 2535 total procedures analysed, 823 were fluoroless URS vs. 556 fluoroscopic URS; and 734 fluoroless PCNL vs. 277 fluoroscopic PCNL. The SFR for fluoroless vs. fluoroscopic guided URS was 85.3% and 77%, respectively (P=.2), while for fluoroless PCNL vs. fluoroscopic group was 83.8% and 84.6%, respectively (P=.9). The overall Clavien-Dindo I/II and III/IV complications for fluoroless and fluoroscopic guided procedures were 3.1% (n=71) and 8.5% (n=131), and 1.7% (n=23) and 3% (n=47) respectively. Only 5 studies reported a failure of the fluoroscopic approach with a total of 30 (1.3%) failed procedures. Conclusion The ALARA protocol has been implemented in endourology in numerous ways to protect both patients and healthcare workers during recent years. Fluoroless procedures for treatment of KSD are safe and effective with outcomes comparable to standard procedures and could become the new frontier of endourology in selected cases. (AU)

¿Cómo calcular el volumen litiásico y cuál es su aplicación quirúrgica? / How to estimate stone volume and its use in stone surgery: A comprehensive review?

Objetivo Las guías actuales para el tratamiento intervencionista sugieren el diámetro acumulativo de la litiasis (DAL) como factor decisivo en la elección del tratamiento quirúrgico óptimo (ureteroscopia [URS], litotricia extracorpórea por ondas de choque [LEOCh] y nefrolitotomía percutánea [NLPC]). El volumen litiásico (VL) se ha introducido recientemente para obtener una estimación más precisa de la carga litiásica. El objetivo de esta revisión es resumir los métodos disponibles para calcular el VL y su aplicación quirúrgica. Material y métodos En diciembre de 2022 se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura mediante búsquedas en las bases de datos Embase, Cochrane y Pubmed. Los artículos se consideraron elegibles si describían la medición del VL o la tasa libre de litiasis (TLL) tras diferentes modalidades de tratamiento (LEOCh, URS, NLPC) o la expulsión espontánea, basándose en la medición del VL. Dos revisores evaluaron de forma independiente la elegibilidad y la calidad de los artículos y realizaron la extracción de datos. Resultados En total se incluyeron 28 estudios. Todos los estudios utilizaron diferentes técnicas para calcular el VL. La medición automática del volumen pareció ser más precisa que la estimación del volumen. Los estudios in vitro mostraron que la medición automática del volumen se ajustaba más al volumen real de la litiasis, con una menor variabilidad interobservador. A diferencia de la NLPC y la LEOCh, en la URS se observó que el VL era un mejor predictor de mejor la TLL que el diámetro litiásico mayor o el diámetro acumulativo en litiasis >20mm. Conclusiones Calcular el VL —de forma manual o automática— es factible, y probablemente se ajuste más a la carga litiásica real. Aunque en el caso de las litiasis grandes tratadas mediante cirugía intrarrenal retrógrada el VL parece predecir mejor la TLL, la superioridad del VL en todas las cargas litiásicas y para todos los tipos de tratamiento está aún por demostrar. ... (AU)

Objective Current interventional guidelines refer to the cumulative stone diameter to choose the appropriate surgical modality (ureteroscopy (URS), extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)). The stone volume (SV) has been introduced recently, to better estimate the stone burden. This review aimed to summarize the available methods to evaluate the SV and its use in urolithiasis treatment. Material and methods A comprehensive review of the literature was performed in December 2022 by searching Embase, Cochrane and Pubmed databases. Articles were considered eligible if they described SV measurement or the stone free rate after different treatment modalities (SWL, URS, PCNL) or spontaneous passage, based on SV measurement. Two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility and the quality of the articles and performed the data extraction. Results In total, 28 studies were included. All studies used different measurement techniques for stone volume. The automated volume measurement appeared to be more precise than the calculated volume. In vitro studies showed that the automated volume measurement was closer to actual stone volume, with a lower inter-observer variability. Regarding URS, stone volume was found to be more predictive of stone free rates as compared to maximum stone diameter or cumulative diameter for stones >20mm. This was not the case for PCNL and SWL. Conclusions Stone volume estimation is feasible, manually or automatically and is likely a better representation of the actual stone burden. While for larger stones treated by retrograde intrarenal surgery, stone volume appears to be a better predictor of SFR, the superiority of stone volume throughout all stone burdens and for all stone treatments, remains to be proven. Automated volume acquisition is more precise and reproducible than calculated volume. (AU)

Has fluoroless endourology (URS and PCNL) come of age? Evidence from a comprehensive literature review.

INTRODUCTION: Radiation via the use of imaging is a key tool in management of kidney stones. Simple measures are largely taken by the endourologists to implement the 'As Low As Reasonably Achievable' (ALARA) principle, including the use of fluoroless technique. We performed a scoping literature review to investigate the success and safety of fluoroless ureteroscopy (URS) or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedures for the treatment of KSD. METHODS: A literature review was performed searching bibliographic databases PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane library, and 14 full papers were included in the review in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: Of the 2535 total procedures analysed, 823 were fluoroless URS vs. 556 fluoroscopic URS; and 734 fluoroless PCNL vs. 277 fluoroscopic PCNL. The SFR for fluoroless vs. fluoroscopic guided URS was 85.3% and 77%, respectively (p=0.2), while for fluoroless PCNL vs. fluoroscopic group was 83.8% and 84.6%, respectively (p=0.9). The overall Clavien-Dindo I/II and III/IV complications for fluoroless and fluoroscopic guided procedures were 3.1% (n=71) and 8.5% (n=131), and 1.7% (n=23) and 3% (n=47) respectively. Only 5 studies reported a failure of the fluoroscopic approach with a total of 30 (1.3%) failed procedures. CONCLUSION: The ALARA protocol has been implemented in endourology in numerous ways to protect both patients and healthcare workers during recent years. Fluoroless procedures for treatment of KSD are safe and effective with outcomes comparable to standard procedures and could become the new frontier of endourology in selected cases.

How to estimate stone volume and its use in stone surgery: a comprehensive review.

OBJECTIVE: Current interventional guidelines refer to the cumulative stone diameter to choose the appropriate surgical modality (ureteroscopy [URS], extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy [ESWL] and percutaneous nephrolithotomy [PCNL]). The stone volume (SV) has been introduced recently, to better estimate the stone burden. This review aimed to summarize the available methods to evaluate the SV and its use in urolithiasis treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A comprehensive review of the literature was performed in December 2022 by searching Embase, Cochrane and Pubmed databases. Articles were considered eligible if they described SV measurement or the stone free rate after different treatment modalities (SWL, URS, PCNL) or spontaneous passage, based on SV measurement. Two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility and the quality of the articles and performed the data extraction. RESULTS: In total, 28 studies were included. All studies used different measurement techniques for stone volume. The automated volume measurement appeared to be more precise than the calculated volume. In vitro studies showed that the automated volume measurement was closer to actual stone volume, with a lower inter-observer variability. Regarding URS, stone volume was found to be more predictive of stone free rates as compared to maximum stone diameter or cumulative diameter for stones >20 mm. This was not the case for PCNL and SWL. CONCLUSIONS: Stone volume estimation is feasible, manually or automatically and is likely a better representation of the actual stone burden. While for larger stones treated by retrograde intrarenal surgery, stone volume appears to be a better predictor of SFR, the superiority of stone volume throughout all stone burdens and for all stone treatments, remains to be proven. Automated volume acquisition is more precise and reproducible than calculated volume.

Post-Ureteroscopic Lesion Scale to determine ureteral wall damage, not so easy to employ.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the level of agreement of the Post-Ureteroscopy Lesion Scale (PULS) and the consequences on its application in clinical practice with more reliable statistical data than the one used in the original work. METHODS: 14 URS and 14 micro-URS were performed in 14 female porcine model. All the procedures were video recorded and an anatomopathological analysis was performed in each ureter. Sixteen urologists (9 endourologists and 7 general urologists) and 4 residents evaluated the ureteral lesions according to the PULS, with degrees 0, 1 and ≥2. The agreement was calculated with percentages, Kendall's W coefficient and the indicators Fleiss' Kappa and Krippendorff's Alpha, while the inter-rater agreement was calculated with Spearman's correlation and Cohen's Kappa. RESULTS: The percent of agreement was 11.1%. The coefficients were likewise classified as low or very low, with the greatest agreement found among the inexperienced. Also, 50% of the raters did not agree with the rest. CONCLUSIONS: The low inter-rater agreement, the specificity of the PULS and the clinical-pathological correlation suggests that this scale is not simple, and probably has a long learning curve.

Valoración del impacto de la tasa libre de litiasis en los resultados de la evaluación metabólica / Is stone free status really necessary for metabolic evaluation following stone removal procedures?

Objetivo Evaluar si la tasa libre de litiasis afecta a los resultados del estudio metabólico en pacientes con alto riesgo de litiasis recidivante tras tratamiento completo mediante ureteroscopia. Pacientes y métodos Un total de 78 pacientes sometidos a cirugía retrógrada intrarrenal (CRIR) para el tratamiento de litiasis fueron incluidos en este estudio. Cuatro semanas después del tratamiento, los casos se dividieron en dos grupos en base a los resultados de la tomografía computarizada sin contraste (TCSC). Los casos del grupo 1 (n=54) presentaban una tasa libre de litiasis del 100% y los del grupo 2 (n=24) presentaban litiasis residuales en el riñón. Cuatro semanas después de la ureteroscopia flexible (URF) se realizó un análisis completo de orina de 24h a todos los pacientes de ambos grupos, para detectar los factores de riesgo implicados en la litogénesis. Los resultados del estudio metabólico (orina de 24h y suero) se compararon entre los dos grupos. Resultados La evaluación preoperatoria en orina y suero de los factores de riesgo asociados a la formación de cálculos no reveló diferencias estadísticas entre los dos grupos. El análisis comparativo de los factores de riesgo implicados en la formación de la litiasis mediante pruebas de orina de 24h tampoco reveló diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los resultados preoperatorios y postoperatorios en los casos del grupo 2 con cálculos residuales. Tampoco se observaron diferencias significativas entre las medias de las variables séricas preoperatorias y postoperatorias de ambos grupos. Conclusiones Según nuestros resultados, y dada la similitud de los hallazgos obtenidos en los estudios metabólicos de los casos con y sin litiasis residual, la tasa libre de litiasis puede no constituir un factor imprescindible para la realización del estudio metabólico detallado (suero y orina de 24h) tras las intervenciones endourológicas para la extracción de los cálculos renales. (AU)

Objective To evaluate the impact of stone free status on the outcomes of metabolic evaluation in recurrent stone formers after ureteroscopic stone removal. Patients and methods A total of 78 patients undergoing retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for renal stones were included and cases were divided into two groups after 4 weeks based on the NCCT findings. While cases in the Group 1 (n=54) was completely stone free, cases in Group 2 (n=24) had residual fragments in the kidney. A full 24-hour urine analysis for relevant stone forming risk factors has been performed after 4 weeks following the fURS procedures in all patients of both groups. Outcomes of metabolic evaluation (24-hour urine and serum) have been comparatively evaluated in both groups. Results Evaluation of the preoperative serum and urine stone forming risk factors revelaed no statistical difference in both groups. Comparative evaluation of the 24-hour urinary stone forming risk factors also revealed no statistically significant difference between preoperative and postoperative findings in cases of Group 2 with residual stones. Last but not least, no significant difference was observed between the mean preoperative and postoperative serum variables between two groups. Conclusions Our results show that in the light of the similar metabolic evaluation outcomes obtained in cases with and without residual fragments, ‘stone free status’ may not be an essential factor to perform a detailed metabolic evaluation (24-hour urine analysis and serum parameters) after endourological stone removal procedures. (AU)

Influencia del sexo en los resultados de la cirugía retrógrada intrarrenal (CRIR). Datos obtenidos del Flexible Ureteroscopy Outcomes Registry (FLEXOR) / Does gender influence retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) outcomes? Data from the Flexible Ureteroscopy Outcomes Registry (FLEXOR)

Introducción y objetivos Si bien la ureteroscopia flexible es una técnica establecida, a día de hoy no existen datos sobre la influencia del sexo del paciente en los resultados y complicaciones. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar el papel que desempeña el sexo en la realización de la ureteroscopia flexible a partir de una serie grande de pacientes.MétodosEste estudio analizó retrospectivamente los datos del registro multicéntrico FLEXOR de los pacientes tratados de cálculos renales con CRIR desde enero de 2018 hasta agosto de 2021. Se analizaron los datos demográficos, las características de los cálculos, los hallazgos perioperatorios, los resultados y las complicaciones, y se compararon entre grupos estratificados según el sexo.ResultadosUn total de 6.669 pacientes fueron incluidos, el 66,1% eran varones y el 33,9% mujeres. Las características de los cálculos eran comparables entre los grupos. Las mujeres presentaron tasas significativamente más elevadas de fiebre y urocultivo positivo (12 frente a 8% y 37 frente a 34%). Además, las mujeres tuvieron una estancia hospitalaria ligeramente más larga (3,8 vs. 3,5 días; p < 0,001) y más fragmentos residuales después del procedimiento (23,03 vs. 20,97; p = 0,032). Las complicaciones globales fueron ligeramente superiores en las mujeres (15,74 frente a 14%; p = 0,042), debido principalmente a las tasas de fiebre (6,9 frente a 5,7%); el riesgo de sepsis fue similar en ambos grupos. Según un análisis multivariante, los cálculos de mayor tamaño, múltiples y localizados en el polo inferior parecen tener un efecto negativo en la incidencia de los cálculos residuales y las complicaciones.ConclusiónNuestro estudio de la vida real a nivel mundial refleja que el sexo femenino puede estar correlacionado con unas tasas ligeramente mayores de fragmentos residuales y complicaciones generales de bajo grado. ... (AU)

Introduction and objectives As well established flexible ureteroscopy (RIRS). There is still no evidence if gender can have any influence on the outcomes and complication when performing This study aims to evaluate the role that gender has in performing flexible ureteroscopy from a large series of patients.MethodsThis study retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent RIRS for renal stones from January 2018 to August 2021 within the multicentric FLEXOR registry. Demographics, stone characteristics, perioperative findings, results and complications were analyzed and compared between gender groups.ResultsA total of 6669 patients were included, 66.1% were male and 33.9% were female. Stone characterictis was comparable between groups. Female patients had significant higher fever and positive urine culture rates (12% vs. 8% and 37% vs. 34%). Also, females had a slight longer hospital stay (3.8 vs. 3.5 days; P < 0.001) and more residual fragments after the procedure (23.03% vs. 20.97 (P = 0.032). Overall complications were slightly significantly higher in women (15.74% vs. 14% (P = 0.042)) mainly at the expense of fever rates (6.9% vs. 5.7%) whereas the risk of sepsis was similar in both groups. A multivariate analysis showed that larger stone size, multiple and lower pole stones seem to have a negative impact in the incidence of residual stones and complications.ConclusionOur real life global study reflects that female gender may have a correlation with a slightly increased residual fragment rate and overall low grade complications. However, women can safely be treated with RIRS with no increased the rate of sepsis with appropriate care. (AU)

Impact of ureteric access sheath use during flexible ureteroscopy: A comparative study on efficacy and safety.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluates the impact of using an access sheath (AS) during flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) for urolithiasis treatment, focusing on outcomes such as stone-free rate, operation time, and complications. METHODS: This prospective, randomized study was carried out at Badr Hospital, Helwan University, and Ain Shams University hospitals from August 2021 to August 2022. Patients were systematically randomized into two groups (fURS with AS: 33 patients and without AS: 31 patients) and underwent preoperative and postoperative assessments, including lab tests and imaging. Possible procedure-associated risks, such as failed stone access, pain, bleeding, and sepsis, were monitored. RESULTS: The two groups were found to be comparable in terms of demographic characteristics or preoperative stone findings (p > 0.05 for all). However, operation duration was shorter in the No Sheath group (79.4 ±â€¯15.3 min vs. 90.4 ±â€¯16.7 min in the Sheath group, p = 0.008). Intraoperative complication rates, including failed access, operation termination, ureteric injury, and bleeding, were comparable in both groups (p > 0.05). Postoperative stone-free rates (78.8% vs. 71.0%, p = 0.305) and mean residual stone size (2.7 ±â€¯3.5 mm vs. 3.1 ±â€¯3.1 mm, p = 0.687) showed no significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: The present study suggests that fURS without an access sheath may offer an efficient and equally effective option for managing upper ureteric and renal stones. However, more studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are required to validate these findings and to establish more precise indications for this approach.

Eficacia y seguridad de la ureteroscopia y la cirugía retrógrada intrarrenal sin fluoroscopia para el tratamiento de la urolitiasis: estudio comparativo / Efficacy and safety of fluoroless ureteroscopy and retrograde intrarenal surgery for the treatment of urolithiasis: A comparative study

Introducción Las técnicas convencionales de ureteroscopia (URS) y cirugía retrógrada intrarrenal (CRIR) requieren el uso de guía fluoroscópica, pero los riesgos derivados de la exposición a radiaciones ionizantes constituyen un motivo de preocupación entre pacientes y urólogos. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la eficacia y la seguridad de la URS y la CRIR sin fluoroscopia y compararlas con los procedimientos convencionales guiados por fluoroscopia para el tratamiento de litiasis ureterales y renales. Material y métodos Los pacientes tratados con URS o CRIR para litiasis urinaria entre agosto de 2018 y diciembre de 2019 fueron evaluados retrospectivamente y agrupados según el uso de o la ausencia de fluoroscopia. Los datos se recopilaron de las historias individuales de los pacientes. Los criterios de valoración principales fueron la tasa libre de cálculos (TLC) y las complicaciones, comparadas entre los grupos con fluoroscopia y sin fluoroscopia. Se realizó un análisis de subgrupos por tipo de procedimiento (URS y CRIR) y un análisis multivariante para identificar los factores predictivos de litiasis residual. Resultados Un total de 231 pacientes cumplieron los criterios de inclusión: 120 (51,9%) en el grupo tratado con fluoroscopia convencional y 111 (48,1%) en el grupo tratado sin fluoroscopia. No se hallaron diferencias significativas entre los grupos en cuanto a la TLC (82,5% vs. 90,1%; p=0,127) o de complicaciones postoperatorias (35,0% vs. 31,5%; p=0,675). No se hallaron diferencias significativas entre estas variables en el análisis de subgrupos, independientemente del procedimiento considerado (AU)

Introduction Ureteroscopy (URS) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) are traditionally guided by fluoroscopy, but the risks of exposure to ionizing radiation may present a matter of concern for patients and urologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fluoroless URS and RIRS compared with conventional fluoroscopy-guided procedures for the treatment of ureteral and renal stones. Material and methods Patients treated with URS or RIRS for urolithiasis between August 2018 and December 2019 were retrospectively evaluated and grouped according to the use of fluoroscopy. Data was collected from individual patient records. The main outcomes were stone-free rate (SFR) and complications, compared between the fluoroscopy and fluoroless groups. A subgroup analysis by type of procedure (URS and RIRS) and a multivariate analysis to identify predictors of residual stones were conducted. Results A total of 231 patients met the inclusion criteria: 120 (51.9%) in the conventional fluoroscopy group and 111 (48.1%) in the fluoroless group. No significant differences were found between groups regarding SFR (82.5% vs 90.1%; P=.127) or postoperative complication rate (35.0% vs 31.5%; P=.675). In the subgroup analysis these variables did not present significant differences, regardless of the procedure considered. In the multivariate analysis the fluoroless technique was not an independent predictor of residual lithiasis (OR: 0.991; 95%IC: 0.407-2.411; P=.983), when adjusted for procedure type, stone size and stone number. Conclusion URS and RIRS can be done without fluoroscopic guidance in selected cases, without affecting the efficacy or safety of the procedure (AU)

Does gender influence retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) outcomes? Data from the Flexible Ureteroscopy Outcomes Registry (FLEXOR).

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: As well established flexible ureteroscopy (RIRS). There is still no evidence if gender can have any influence on the outcomes and complication when performing. This study aims to evaluate the role that gender has in performing flexible ureteroscopy from a large series of patients. METHODS: This study retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent RIRS for renal stones from January 2018 to August 2021 within the multicentric FLEXOR registry. Demographics, stone characteristics, perioperative findings, results and complications were analyzed and compared between gender groups. RESULTS: A total of 6669 patients were included, 66.1% were male and 33.9% were female. Stone characteristics was comparable between groups. Female patients had significant higher fever and positive urine culture rates (12% vs. 8% and 37% vs. 34%). Also, females had a slight longer hospital stay (3.8 vs. 3.5 days; P < 0.001) and more residual fragments after the procedure (23.03% vs. 20.97 (P = 0.032). Overall complications were slightly significantly higher in women (15.74% vs. 14% (P = 0.042)) mainly at the expense of fever rates (6.9% vs. 5.7%) whereas the risk of sepsis was similar in both groups. A multivariate analysis showed that larger stone size, multiple and lower pole stones seem to have a negative impact in the incidence of residual stones and complications. CONCLUSION: Our real life global study reflects that female gender may have a correlation with a slightly increased residual fragment rate and overall low grade complications. However, women can safely be treated with RIRS with no increased the rate of sepsis with appropriate care.

Is stone free status really necessary for metabolic evaluation following stone removal procedures?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of stone free status on the outcomes of metabolic evaluation in recurrent stone formers after ureteroscopic stone removal. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 78 patients undergoing retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for renal stones were included and cases were divided into two groups after 4 weeks based on the NCCT findings. While cases in the Group 1 (n = 54) was completely stone free, cases in Group 2 (n = 24) had residual fragments in the kidney. A full 24-h urine analysis for relevant stone forming risk factors has been performed after 4 weeks following the fURS procedures in all patients of both groups. Outcomes of metabolic evaluation (24-h urine and serum) have been comparatively evaluated in both groups. RESULTS: Evaluation of the preoperative serum and urine stone forming risk factors revelaed no statistical difference in both groups. Comparative evaluation of the 24-h urinary stone forming risk factors also revealed no statistically significant difference between preoperative and postoperative findings in cases of Group 2 with residual stones. Last but not least, no significant difference was observed between the mean preoperative and postoperative serum variables between two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that in the light of the similar metabolic evaluation outcomes obtained in cases with and without residual fragments, 'stone free status' may not be an essential factor to perform a detailed metabolic evaluation (24-h urine analysis and serum parameters) after endourological stone removal procedures.

Efficacy and safety of fluoroless ureteroscopy and retrograde intrarenal surgery for the treatment of urolithiasis: A comparative study.

INTRODUCTION: Ureteroscopy (URS) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) are traditionally guided by fluoroscopy, but the risks of exposure to ionizing radiation may present a matter of concern for patients and urologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fluoroless URS and RIRS compared with conventional fluoroscopy-guided procedures for the treatment of ureteral and renal stones. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients treated with URS or RIRS for urolithiasis between August 2018 and December 2019 were retrospectively evaluated and grouped according to the use of fluoroscopy. Data was collected from individual patient records. The main outcomes were stone-free rate (SFR) and complications, compared between the fluoroscopy and fluoroless groups. A subgroup analysis by type of procedure (URS and RIRS) and a multivariate analysis to identify predictors of residual stones were conducted. RESULTS: A total of 231 patients met the inclusion criteria: 120 (51.9%) in the conventional fluoroscopy group and 111 (48.1%) in the fluoroless group. No significant differences were found between groups regarding SFR (82.5% vs 90.1%, p=.127) or postoperative complication rate (35.0% vs 31.5%, p=.675). In the subgroup analysis these variables did not present significant differences, regardless of the procedure considered. In the multivariate analysis the fluoroless technique was not an independent predictor of residual lithiasis (OR 0.991; 95% IC 0.407-2.411; p=.983), when adjusted for procedure type, stone size and stone number. CONCLUSION: URS and RIRS can be done without fluoroscopic guidance in selected cases, without affecting the efficacy or safety of the procedure.

Initial results of endourological treatment of renoureteral lithiasis by means of flexible ureteroscopy and percutaneous surgery in an outpatient procedure in a tertiary care center.

OBJECTIVE: Urinary lithiasis is a prevalent disease with a high socioeconomic impact, where endourological surgery has shown excellent results with minimal complications. For its part, outpatient surgery is an efficient, safe and quality care model. We present our experience in the outpatient endourological treatment of lithiasis and a review of the main series. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective analysis of 85 flexible or percutaneous procedures for the treatment of lithiasis, carried out in our center between January 2021 and April 2022. The main objective was to analyze the rate of unplanned admission and the success and incidence of complications as secondary objectives. The patients were selected following the inclusion criteria of the care process. RESULTS: The mean age was 56 ± 14 years. Urine culture was positive in 13.9% of the patients, 38% had a pre-surgical double-J catheter. Median stone surface was 55 mm 2 (961 ± 323 Hounsfield Units). 73 flexible and 12 percutaneous procedures were performed. 8 patients required immediate unplanned admission and another 2 during the first month. 94% were stone-free at the third month. No intraoperative complications were detected, although 16.5% of the patients presented some type of postoperative complication. CONCLUSION: In our experience, with a strict selection of patients and following a care process with multidisciplinary participation, endourological procedures are feasible and safe in the outpatient setting. Periodic monitoring of the results is essential for the sake of a constant improvement of the process.

Resultados iniciales del tratamiento endourológico de la litiasis renoureteral mediante ureteroscopia flexible y cirugía percutánea en régimen de cirugía mayor ambulatoria en un centro de tercer nivel / Initial results of endourological treatment of renoureteral lithiasis by means of flexible ureteroscopy and percutaneous surgery in an outpatient procedure in a tertiary care center

Objetivo La litiasis urinaria es una enfermedad prevalente y con elevado impacto socioeconómico, donde la cirugía endourológica ha demostrado excelentes resultados con mínimas complicaciones. Por su parte, la cirugía ambulatoria es un modelo asistencial eficiente, seguro y de calidad. Presentamos nuestra experiencia en el tratamiento endourológico ambulatorio de la litiasis renoureteral y una revisión de las principales series. Material y métodos Análisis prospectivo de 85 procedimientos flexibles o percutáneos para el tratamiento de la litiasis, llevados a cabo en nuestro centro entre enero de 2021 y abril de 2022. Se estableció como objetivo principal analizar la tasa de ingreso no planificado y como objetivos secundarios el éxito e incidencia de complicaciones. Los pacientes fueron seleccionados siguiendo los criterios del proceso asistencial. Resultados La edad media fue de 56±14 años. El urocultivo fue positivo en 13,9% de los pacientes, siendo portadores de doble J prequirúrgico 38%. Mediana de superficie litiásica de 55 mm2, con 961±323 Unidades Hounsfield. Se realizaron 73 procedimientos flexibles y 12 percutáneos. Ocho pacientes requirieron ingreso no planificado inmediato y otros dos durante el primer mes. Al tercer mes, 94% se encontraban libre de litiasis. No se detectaron complicaciones intraoperatorias, aunque 16,5% de los pacientes presentaron algún tipo de complicación postoperatoria. Conclusión En nuestra experiencia, con una estricta selección de los pacientes y siguiendo un proceso asistencial con participación multidisciplinar, los procedimientos endourológicos son factibles y seguros en el ámbito ambulatorio. La monitorización periódica de los resultados es fundamental en aras de una mejora constante del proceso (AU)

Objective Urinary lithiasis is a prevalent disease with a high socioeconomic impact, where endourological surgery has shown excellent results with minimal complications. For its part, outpatient surgery is an efficient, safe and quality care model. We present our experience in the outpatient endourological treatment of lithiasis and a review of the main series. Material and methods Prospective analysis of 85 flexible or percutaneous procedures for the treatment of lithiasis, carried out in our center between January 2021 and April 2022. The main objective was to analyze the rate of unplanned admission and the success and incidence of complications as secondary objectives. The patients were selected following the inclusion criteria of the care process. Results The mean age was 56±14 years. Urine culture was positive in 13.9% of the patients, 38% had a pre-surgical double-J catheter. Median stone surface was 55 mm2 (961±323 Hounsfield Units). 73 flexible and 12 percutaneous procedures were performed. 8 patients required immediate unplanned admission and another 2 during the first month. 94% were stone-free at the third month. No intraoperative complications were detected, although 16.5% of the patients presented some type of postoperative complication. Conclusion In our experience, with a strict selection of patients and following a care process with multidisciplinary participation, endourological procedures are feasible and safe in the outpatient setting. Periodic monitoring of the results is essential for the sake of a constant improvement of the process (AU)

Use of artificial intelligence for sepsis risk prediction after flexible ureteroscopy: a systematic review / Uso da inteligência artificial na predição do risco de sepse pós-ureteroscopia flexível: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Introduction: flexible ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used for the treatment of renal lithiasis. Postoperative urosepsis is a rare but potentially fatal complication. Traditional models used to predict the risk of this condition have limited accuracy, while models based on artificial intelligence are more promising. The objective of this study is to carry out a systematic review regarding the use of artificial intelligence to detect the risk of sepsis in patients with renal lithiasis undergoing flexible ureteroscopy. Methods: the literature review is in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). The keyword search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus and resulted in a total of 2,496 articles, of which 2 met the inclusion criteria. Results: both studies used artificial intelligence models to predict the risk of sepsis after flexible uteroscopy. The first had a sample of 114 patients and was based on clinical and laboratory parameters. The second had an initial sample of 132 patients and was based on preoperative computed tomography images. Both obtained good measurements of Area Under the Curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity, demonstrating good performance. Conclusion: artificial intelligence provides multiple effective strategies for sepsis risk stratification in patients undergoing urological procedures for renal lithiasis, although further studies are needed.

RESUMO Introdução: a ureteroscopia flexível é uma técnica cirúrgica minimamente invasiva utilizada para o tratamento de litíase renal. A urosepse pós-operatória é uma complicação rara, mas potencialmente fatal. Os modelos tradicionais utilizados para prever o risco dessa condição apresentam precisão limitada, enquanto modelos baseados em inteligência artificial são mais promissores. O objetivo desse estudo é realizar uma revisão sistemática a respeito do uso de inteligência artificial para detecção do risco de sepse em pacientes com litíase renal submetidos à ureteroscopia flexível. Métodos: a revisão de literatura está de acordo com o Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). A busca com palavras-chave foi realizada no MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science e Scopus e resultou no total de 2.496 artigos, dos quais 2 se enquadraram nos critérios de inclusão. Resultados: os dois estudos utilizaram modelos de inteligência artificial para predizer o risco de sepse após utereroscopia flexível. O primeiro teve uma amostra de 114 pacientes e foi baseado em parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais. O segundo teve uma amostra inicial de 132 pacientes e foi baseado em imagens de tomografia computadorizada no pré-operatório. Ambos obtiveram boas medidas de Area Under the Curve (AUC), sensibilidade e especificidade, demonstrando boa performance. Conclusão: a inteligência artificial fornece múltiplas estratégias eficazes para estratificação do risco de sepse em pacientes submetidos a procedimentos urológicos para litíase renal, ainda que mais estudos sejam necessários.

El papel de la ureteroscopia para el tratamiento de los cálculos coraliformes y renales: un metaanálisis / The role of ureteroscopy in the treatment of coraliform and kidney stones: a meta analysis

La ureteroscopia juega un papel fundamental en el marco de un abordaje combinado de los cálculos en cuerno de ciervo y cálculos renales grandes (>2cm). Siendo adecuada para la eliminación de cálculos residuales. En casos específicos, la ureteroscopia puede convertirse en la única opción terapéutica aplicable a los cálculos en cuerno de ciervo. Los avances tecnológicos y el perfecciamieto de las técnicas sugieren un papel importante de a ureteroscopia para el tratamiento de los cálculos en cuerno de ciervo en un futuro próximo.

Flexible Ureteroscopy as a Major Ambulatory Surgery Procedure. Single Center Experience and Analysis of Variables Related to Hospital Readmission

Objective: To assess our experience in flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) in major ambulatory surgery (MAS) and to detect variables related to unplanned medical assistance after surgery. Material & Methods: We conducted a retrospective study among patients with renal stones undergoing a fURS from 2014 to 2019 in MAS at our hospital. Variables: Age, gender, ASA physical status, type of anesthetic technique performed, stone characteristics, influence of double J stent before or after surgery, and postoperative complications according to the Clavien-Dindo modified classification. We evaluated variables related to hospital readmission or visit to the emergency room after surgery. Results: A total of 222 consecutive fURS for stone disease were performed in MAS. Patients’ average age was 52.9 ± 13.91 years old. The mean operating time was 57.86 ± 21.11 minutes. The mean stone size was 1.92 ± 1.43 with a diameter of 10.01 ± 4.24 mm. 47.3% of patients had a double J stent before fURS, and in 35.14% of cases, a stent was placed after surgery. 7.65% of patients required unplanned hospitalization. 14.86% of patients presented to the emergency room in the following month after surgery. Among them, one-third consulted for symptoms related to the double J. Patients who carried a double J stent before the fURS had 64% less risk of visiting the emergency department in the following month after surgery [OR = 0,363; IC95% (0.153-0.798)]. All other variables (age, gender, operating time...) did not modify the risk of unplanned medical assistance. Conclusion: The low complication rate following flexible ureteroscopy allows its performance as an ambulatory surgery. Patients who carry double J stent before the procedure have less risk of requiring unplanned medical assistance after the surgery (AU)

Objetivos: Evaluar nuestra experiencia con laureterorrenoscopia flexible (Uflex) en régimen de cirugíamayor ambulatoria (CMA) e identificar variables predictoras de asistencia médica no programada en el postoperatorio.Material y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de los pacientes afectos de litiasis renal intervenidos mediante Uflexen régimen de CMA entre 2014 y 2019 en nuestro centro.Variables: Edad, género, medicación antitrombótica, categoría del paciente según la clasificación de la SociedadAmericana de Anestesistas (ASA), tipo de anestesia empleada, características de la litiasis, influencia del cateterismo doble J y pre y postcirugía y complicaciones postoperatorias según la clasificación Clavien-Dindo modificada.Investigamos que variables puedan asociarse a requerir ingreso o consulta a urgencias tras la intervención quirúrgica.Resultados: Un total de 222 pacientes consecutivosafectos de litiasis renal fueron intervenidos mediante Uflexen régimen de CMA. La edad de los pacientes fue de 52,9 ±13,91 años. El tiempo quirúrgico fue de 57,86 ± 21,11 minutos. El número de litiasis fue de 1,92 ± 1,43 y el tamañode la litiasis fue de 10,01 ± 4,24 mm. El 47,3% de los pacientes tenían un catéter doble J previo a la Uflex y se dejóposteriormente a la misma en un 35,14% de los casos. Un7,65% de los pacientes requirieron ingreso hospitalario. El14,86% de los pacientes acudió a urgencias en el mes siguiente a la cirugía. De ellos, un tercio consultó por sintomatología relacionada con el doble J. Los portadores de dobleJ previo a la cirugía tuvieron un 64% menos de probabilidadde consultar en urgencias en el mes siguiente [OR = 0,363;IC95% (0.153-0.798)]. El resto de variables (edad, sexo,tiempo quirúrgico…) no modificaron el riesgo de consultaen urgencias ó de ingreso hospitalario... (AU)

Urolitiasis en el embarazo: avances en las modalidades de imagen y evaluación de las tendencias actuales en los abordajes endourológicos / Urolithiasis in pregnancy: Advances in imaging modalities and evaluation of current trends in endourological approaches

Objetivo Dados los desafíos inherentes al diagnóstico y tratamiento de las mujeres embarazadas con urolitiasis, nos proponemos revisar las modalidades de imagen y el manejo endourológico actual de estas pacientes. Materiales y métodos se realizó una revisión de la literatura disponible sobre la urolitiasis en el embarazo. Esto incluyó la evaluación, el diagnóstico por imágenes y las opciones terapéuticas. Las bases de datos en las que se realizó la búsqueda fueron Google Scholar y PubMed. Se examinaron un total de 346 resúmenes. Tras aplicar los criterios de inclusión y exclusión quedaron 42 publicaciones: 18 estudios retrospectivos, 10 revisiones o metaanálisis, 8 conjuntos de directrices, 5 ensayos de control aleatorizados y una cohorte prospectiva. Resultados Iniciamos nuestra revisión con la literatura disponible sobre la seguridad y eficacia de las modalidades de imagen en la planificación quirúrgica de la urolitiasis en pacientes embarazadas. Esto incluye la ecografía renal, la radiografía abdominal, la tomografía computarizada y la resonancia magnética. Mientras que la tomografía computarizada puede suponer una exposición mayor a la radiación, con posibles problemas de seguridad, la resonancia magnética, aunque es una prueba menos sensible, parece ser más segura. A continuación se describen la seguridad, la eficacia y los resultados de diversas intervenciones quirúrgicas para la urolitiasis en pacientes embarazadas, como son la colocación de un stent ureteral, la nefrostomía percutánea, la ureteroscopia, la litotricia extracorpórea por ondas de choque y la nefrolitotomía percutánea. La ureteroscopia es un abordaje más seguro, pero la nefrolitotomía percutánea ofrece tasas mayores de ausencia de cálculos. Utilizando un enfoque basado en la evidencia, proponemos un algoritmo para el manejo de las mujeres embarazadas con cólico renal (AU)

Objective Given the challenges involved in diagnosis and treatment of pregnant women with urolithiasis, we aim to review the imaging modalities and current endourological management of these patients. Materials and methods We performed a review of the available literature on urolithiasis in pregnancy. This included evaluation, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic options. The databases we searched from included Google Scholar and PubMed. A total of 346 abstracts were screened. After our inclusion/exclusion criteria were met, we were left with 42 sources: 18 retrospective studies, 10 reviews/meta-analyses, 8 sets of guidelines, 5 randomized control trials, and one prospective cohort. Results We begin our review with the literature available on the safety and efficacy of imaging modalities in the surgical planning for urolithiasis in pregnant patients. This includes renal ultrasound, abdominal x-ray, computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging. While computed tomography may result in an added radiation exposure, with possible safety concerns, magnetic resonance imaging seems to be safer, however a less sensitive test. We next describe safety, efficacy, and outcomes of various surgical interventions for urolithiasis in pregnant patients. This encompasses ureteral stenting, percutaneous nephrostomy, ureteroscopy, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Ureteroscopy is a safer approach, but percutaneous nephrolithotomy offers higher stone-free rates. Using an evidence-based approach, we propose an algorithm for management of the pregnant women with renal colic. Conclusion Management of the pregnant women with suspected urolithiasis is a unique challenge for healthcare providers. A multi-disciplinary approach should be taken to optimize outcomes through an evidence-based approach (AU)