Comparison between a tubeless, on-body automated insulin delivery system and a tubeless, on-body sensor-augmented pump in type 1 diabetes: a multicentre randomised controlled trial.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: This study compares the efficacy and safety of a tubeless, on-body automated insulin delivery (AID) system with that of a tubeless, on-body sensor-augmented pump (SAP). METHODS: This multicentre, parallel-group, RCT was conducted at 13 tertiary medical centres in South Korea. Adults aged 19-69 years with type 1 diabetes who had HbA1c levels of <85.8 mmol/mol (<10.0%) were eligible. The participants were assigned at a 1:1 ratio to receive a tubeless, on-body AID system (intervention group) or a tubeless, on-body SAP (control group) for 12 weeks. Stratified block randomisation was conducted by an independent statistician. Blinding was not possible due to the nature of the intervention. The primary outcome was the percentage of time in range (TIR), blood glucose between 3.9 and 10.0 mmol/l, as measured by continuous glucose monitoring. ANCOVAs were conducted with baseline values and study centres as covariates. RESULTS: A total of 104 participants underwent randomisation, with 53 in the intervention group and 51 in the control group. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 40±11 years. The mean (±SD) TIR increased from 62.1±17.1% at baseline to 71.5±10.7% over the 12 week trial period in the intervention group and from 64.7±17.0% to 66.9±15.0% in the control group (difference between the adjusted means: 6.5% [95% CI 3.6%, 9.4%], p<0.001). Time below range, time above range, CV and mean glucose levels were also significantly better in the intervention group compared with the control group. HbA1c decreased from 50.9±9.9 mmol/mol (6.8±0.9%) at baseline to 45.9±7.4 mmol/mol (6.4±0.7%) after 12 weeks in the intervention group and from 48.7±9.1 mmol/mol (6.6±0.8%) to 45.7±7.5 mmol/mol (6.3±0.7%) in the control group (difference between the adjusted means: -0.7 mmol/mol [95% CI -2.0, 0.8 mmol/mol] (-0.1% [95% CI -0.2%, 0.1%]), p=0.366). No diabetic ketoacidosis or severe hypoglycaemia events occurred in either group. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: The use of a tubeless, on-body AID system was safe and associated with superior glycaemic profiles, including TIR, time below range, time above range and CV, than the use of a tubeless, on-body SAP. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) KCT0008398 FUNDING: The study was funded by a grant from the Korea Medical Device Development Fund supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT; the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy; the Ministry of Health and Welfare; and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (grant number: RS-2020-KD000056).

Ureteral stent after PCNL: is leaving the threads through the percutaneous tract safe and better tolerated?

OBJECTIVE: To assess safety, urinary symptoms, and feasibility of JJ stent removal with exteriorized threads through the percutaneous tract after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, transversal, comparative, experimental, randomized 1-to-1 cohort study in 52 patients who underwent "tubeless" PCNL from October 2020 to November 2022. Group A with threads through the urethra and Group B through the percutaneous tract. The validated USSQ (Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire) was applied in the Urology office a week after the procedure, and the JJ stent was withdrawn by pulling the threads. Hemoglobin and urine culture, and pre- and post-surgery were evaluated. RESULTS: There is a statistically significant difference in favor of group B when comparing urinary symptoms (p = 0.008), body pain (p = 0.009), and general condition (p = 0.042), mainly for non-urgency incontinence, frequency of analgesic use, and dysuria. There were significant differences between groups (p = 0.028, p = 0.026, p = 0.027, respectively). There is no association with urinary infections (p = 0.603) nor an increased risk of bleeding (p = 0.321). CONCLUSION: The removal of the JJ stent with exteriorized threads through the percutaneous tract after PCNL in the office is a feasible and safe procedure if it is removed before 8 days and has better tolerance regarding the urinary symptoms.

Improvements in cuirass ventilation for airway surgery: origins in Copenhagen on the 70th anniversary of the first intensive care unit.

The first modern intensive care unit was established in Copenhagen 70 yr ago. This cornerstone of anaesthesia was largely based on experience gained using positive pressure ventilation to save hundreds of patients during the polio epidemic in 1952. Ventilation approaches, monitoring techniques, and pharmacological innovations have developed to such an extent that cuirass ventilation, which proved inadequate during the polio epidemic, might now have novel applications for both anaesthesia and treatment of the critically ill.

The effect of intraoperative transnasal humidified rapid-insufflation ventilatory exchange on emergence from general anesthesia in patients undergoing microlaryngeal surgery: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Transnasal humidified rapid-insufflation ventilatory exchange (THRIVE) has received extensive attention for its utility in tubeless anesthesia. Still, the effects of its carbon dioxide accumulation on emergence from anesthesia have not been reported. This randomized controlled trial aimed at exploring the impact of THRIVE combined with laryngeal mask (LM) on the quality of emergence in patients undergoing microlaryngeal surgery. METHODS: After research ethics board approval, 40 eligible patients receiving elective microlaryngeal vocal cord polypectomy were randomly allocated 1:1 to two groups, THRIVE + LM group: intraoperative apneic oxygenation using THRIVE followed by mechanical ventilation through a laryngeal mask in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), or MV + ETT group: mechanically ventilated through an endotracheal tube for both intraoperative and post-anesthesia periods. The primary outcome was duration of PACU stay. Other parameters reflecting quality of emergence and carbon dioxide accumulation were also recorded. RESULTS: Duration of PACU stay (22.4 ± 6.4 vs. 28.9 ± 8.8 min, p = 0.011) was shorter in the THRIVE + LM group. The incidence of cough (2/20, 10% vs. 19/20, 95%, P < 0.001) was significantly lower in the THRIVE + LM group. Peripheral arterial oxygen saturation and mean arterial pressure during intraoperative and PACU stay, Quality of Recovery Item 40 total score at one day after surgery and Voice Handicap Index-10 score at seven days after surgery were of no difference between two groups. CONCLUSIONS: The THRIVE + LM strategy could accelerate emergence from anesthesia and reduce the incidence of cough without compromising oxygenation. However, these benefits did not convert to the QoR-40 and VHI-10 scores improvement. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR2000038652.

[The efficiency of totally tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy: analysis of 40 cases].

INTRODUCTION: Previously, the placement of a nephrostomy tube was considered standard practice during percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) to ensure repeat access and kidney assessment. However, some publications have shown that in certain cases, a totally tubeless approach may be a viable alternative, provided that PCNL is performed properly and safely. AIM: To analyze the results and complications of totally tubeless PCNL. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 40 patients with renal stones who underwent totally tubeless PCNL using a single percutaneous access of 16 Ch or 26 Ch at the urology department of NUZ KB "RJD-Medicine", Krasnoyarsk, Russia, from September 2021 to March 2023, was carried out. Factors that could affect the efficiency and safety of PCNL were analyzed. RESULTS: The mean duration of the procedure was 39.6 +/- 14.4 minutes. The average decrease in hemoglobin level was 5.9 +/- 5.5. Narcotic analgesics were used postoperatively in 17.5% (7) of patients. The mean length of stay was 4.7 +/- 1.1 days. Transient fever was observed in 4 (10%) cases. In one case, an exacerbation of chronic pyelonephritis developed. There were no cases of significant bleeding during the PCNL, and no patients required blood transfusion. CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm that totally tubeless PNL is a safe alternative to standard procedure and is not associated with an increased risk of early postoperative complications. This technique is efficient and safe for kidney stones and may be recommended for a select group of patients.

The safety and efficiency of a 1470 nm laser in obtaining tract hemostasis in tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy: a retrospective cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: It is challenging to perform a tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) in patients with tract bleeding. The present study was designed to study the safety and efficacy of the 1470 nm laser for hemostatic completion in tubeless PNL patients with tract bleeding. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between January 2020 and October 2021, 120 patients were retrospectively included and divided into two groups. The hemostasis group included 60 patients receiving tubeless PNL, in which a 1470 nm laser was used to manage tract bleeding. The other group included 60 patients receiving tubeless PNL in which the hemostasis procedure was not performed, serving as the control group. The differences in the patients' demographic characteristics, procedural information, and posttreatment outcomes between the two groups were statistically compared. RESULTS: The differences associated with sex, age, weight, body mass index, urine culture, stone burden, calyx of puncture, degree of hydronephrosis and comorbidities between the two groups were not statistically significant. Compared with the control group, the hemostasis group showed greatly reduced blood loss (0.61 ± 0.31 vs. 0.85 ± 0.46 g/dL) and decreased postoperative hospitalization duration (2.83 ± 0.81 vs. 4.45 ± 0.91 days). The differences in operative time, stone-free rate, Visual Analogue Score and postoperative complications between the two groups were not statistically significant. In the subgroup analysis, the obese patients and patients with moderate to severe hydronephrosis in the hemostasis group also showed a significantly less blood loss (0.51 ± 0.22 vs. 0.83 ± 0.48 g/dL; 0.54 ± 0.27 vs. 0.85 ± 0.47 g/dL, respectively) and shorter length of postoperative hospitalization (2.62 ± 0.51 vs. 4.47 ± 1.19 days; 2.97 ± 0.63 vs. 4.41 ± 0.91 days, respectively) than those in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrated that 1470 nm laser is a safe, feasible and effective method to obtain tract hemostasis in tubeless PNL.

One-stage tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy for asymptomatic calculous pyonephrosis.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the safety and effectiveness of one-stage percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for the treatment of calculous pyonephrosis have been proven. In order to further reduce postoperative pain and hospital stay, we first proposed and practiced the idea of one-stage tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy for calculous pyonephrosis. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed of case data of 30 patients with asymptomatic calculous pyonephrosis treated in our center with one-stage PCNL from January 2016 to January 2021. Patients were routinely given 20 mg of furosemide and 10 mg of dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection intravenously at the beginning of anesthesia. Among them, 27 patients successfully underwent one-stage tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy, while 3 cases were given indwelling nephrostomy tubes because of proposed second-stage surgery or the number of channels was greater than or equal to 3. All patients were operated on by the same surgeon. RESULTS: Preoperatively, 11 of 30 patients (8 men and 22 women) had positive urine bacterial cultures, and all were given appropriate antibiotics based on drug sensitivity tests. All patients completed the surgery successfully. The mean operative time was 66.6 ± 34.7 min, the mean estimated blood loss was 16.67 ± 14.34 mL and the mean postoperative hospital stay was 5.0 ± 3.1 days. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 4.6 ± 2.5 days among the 27 patients with one-stage tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Of the 3 patients with postoperative fever, 2 had the tubeless technique applied. One patient with 3 channels was given renal artery interventional embolization for control of postoperative bleeding. None of the 30 patients included in the study developed sepsis. The final stone-free rate was 93.3% (28/30) on repeat computed tomography at 1 month postoperatively. The final stone-free rate was 92.6% in the 27 patients undergoing one-stage tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (25/27). CONCLUSIONS: One-stage tubeless PCNL is an available and safe option in carefully evaluated and selected calculous pyonephrosis patients.

Tubeless supra-costal percutaneous nephrolithotomy is associated with significantly less hydrothorax: a prospective randomized clinical study.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate prospectively whether a tubeless (JJ stent-only) percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) might reduce the risk of hydrothorax, compared to an approach where a nephrostomy tube is left. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a two-arm open-label prospective randomized study (NCT02036398) comparing tubeless supra-costal PCNL (with a JJ stent only) to standard PCNL (with nephrostomy tube and JJ stent) using intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses. All patients underwent a standard single-stage prone supra-costal procedure with single-tract access. Complication data were collected according to the Clavien-Dindo grading system. The primary endpoint was the rate of hydrothorax, and secondary endpoints included stone-free rate (SFR) and complication rate. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with hydrothorax formation. RESULTS: Out of 101 patients approached, 75 were finally analysed. No differences were observed between the two arms with regard to baseline demographic and stone characteristics. The mean largest stone size ranged between 23 and 24.2 mm. No significant difference was seen in the mean operating time and length of hospital stay. The incidence of hydrothorax was significantly higher in the nephrostomy group in comparison to the tubeless group (37.8% vs 15.8%, P = 0.031, and 38.4% vs 13.8%, P = 0.016, in the ITT and PP analyses, respectively). The SFR and complication rate were similar in both groups using the ITT and PP analyses. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that nephrostomy tube placement was the only covariate associated in a statistically significant manner to hydrothorax (odds ratio 3.628, 95% confidence interval 1.073-12.265; P = 0.038). CONCLUSION: The rate of hydrothorax in supra-costal PCNL is associated with the type of postoperative drainage left. When possible, a tubeless approach should be applied as it may confer a lower risk of hydrothorax.

Management of large renal stones with super-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy: an international multicentre comparative study.

OBJECTIVES: To comparatively evaluate the clinical outcomes of super-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (SMP) and mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (Miniperc) for treating urinary tract calculi of >2 cm. PATIENTS AND METHODS: An international multicentre, retrospective cohort study was conducted at 20 tertiary care hospitals across five countries (China, the Philippines, Qatar, UK, and Kuwait) between April 2016 and May 2019. SMP and Miniperc were performed in 3525 patients with renal calculi with diameters of >2 cm. The primary endpoint was the stone-free rate (SFR). The secondary outcomes included: blood loss, operating time, postoperative pain scores, auxiliary procedures, complications, tubeless rate, and hospital stay. Propensity score matching analysis was used to balance the selection bias between the two groups. RESULTS: In all, 2012 and 1513 patients underwent SMP and Miniperc, respectively. After matching, 1380 patients from each group were included for further analysis. Overall, there was no significant difference in the mean operating time or SFR between the two groups. However, the hospital stay and postoperative pain score were significantly in favour of SMP (both P < 0.001). The tubeless rate was significantly higher in the SMP group (72.6% vs 57.8%, P < 0.001). Postoperative fever was much more common in the Miniperc group (12.0% vs 8.4%, P = 0.002). When the patients were further classified into three subgroups based on stones diameters (2-3, 3-4, and >4 cm). The advantages of SMP were most obvious in the 2-3 cm stone group and diminished as the size of the stone increased, with longer operating time in the latter two subgroups. Compared with Miniperc, the SFR of SMP was comparable for 3-4 cm stones, but lower for >4 cm stones. There was no statistical difference in blood transfusions and renal embolisations between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our data showed that SMP is an ideal treatment option for stones of <4 cm and is more efficacious for stones of 2-3 cm, with lesser postoperative fever, blood loss, and pain compared to Miniperc. SMP was less effective for stones of >4 cm, with a prolonged operating time.

Postoperative Outcomes after Tubeless, Totally Tubeless, Standard, and Standard with Ureteral Stent Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A Nationwide Retrospective Study in Japan.

OBJECTIVES: We examined the advantages of tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and totally tubeless PCNL over standard PCNL. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a nationwide inpatient database in Japan, we gathered data on patients undergoing PCNL from July 2010 to March 2016 and extracted eligible patients who were candidates for tubeless PCNL. Eligible patients were divided into 4 groups: tubeless, totally tubeless, standard, and standard PCNL with ureteral stent (US). Multivariable analyses compared postoperative hospital stay, duration of analgesic use, urinary tract infection (UTI), and blood transfusion among the 4 groups. RESULTS: Analyses were conducted on patients in the standard (n = 954), tubeless (n = 98), totally tubeless (n = 146), and standard PCNL with US (n = 389) groups. Postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the tubeless group than in the standard group (1.6 days [-2.9 to 0.4]). With reference to the standard PCNL group, there was no significant difference in the number of days of analgesic use or the proportions of postoperative UTIs or blood transfusion among the groups. Postoperative UTIs developed significantly more often in women than in men regardless of the PCNL method. CONCLUSIONS: Our multivariable analyses showed that tubeless PCNL was associated with shorter postoperative hospital stays, but totally tubeless PCNL was not.

Tubeless uniportal thoracoscopic wedge resection with modified air leak test and chest tube drainage.

BACKGROUND: To investigate whether tubeless uniportal thoracoscopic wedge resection with modified air leak test and chest tube drainage has better short-term outcomes than non-intubated approach with chest tube drainage. METHODS: Data were collected retrospectively from January 2017 and December 2019. Tubeless group included 55 patients with pulmonary nodules underwent tubeless uniportal thoracoscopic wedge resection, 211 patients underwent non-intubated uniportal thoracoscopic wedge resection with chest tube drainage were included in drainage group. Peri-operative outcomes between two groups were compared. RESULTS: After 1:1 matching, 110 patients remained for analysis, baseline demographic and clinical variables were comparable between the two groups. Mean incision size was 3 cm in both group. Mean operative time was 59.3 min in tubeless group and 52.8 min in drainage group. The detectable mean lowest SpO2 and mean peak EtCO2 during operation was acceptable in both groups. Conversion to intubated ventilation or thoracotomy was not required. No patient failed the air leak test and did not undergo a tubeless procedure. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 1.5 days in tubeless group and 2.5 days in drainage group. Residual pneumothorax or subcutaneous emphysema was not frequent and mild in tubeless group. Side effects were rare and mild, including cough and hemoptysis. No re-intervention or readmission occurred. The postoperative VAS score was significantly lower in tubeless group. CONCLUSIONS: Tubeless uniportal thoracoscopic wedge resection with modified air leak test and chest tube drainage is feasible and safe for selected patients with peripheral pulmonary nodules, it might reduce post-operation pain and lead to faster recovery.

Total tubeless versus standard percutaneous nephrolithotomy: a meta-analysis.

To compare the safety and efficacy of total tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) with standard PCNL for the treatment of upper urinary calculi. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect were searched for collecting related literature on the two procedures. All compared studies, including randomized controlled trials (RCT), cohort studies (CS) and case-control studies (CCS), were included. Totally, 14 studies were included. Pooled data demonstrated that patients who underwent total tubeless PCNL were associated with significantly shorter operation time [weighted mean difference (WMD): -3.41, P = 0.004], shorter hospital stay (WMD: -1.54, P < 0.00001). It seemed that significantly less postoperative analgesic requirement could be found in the total tubeless PCNL group according to subgroup analysis. However, no significant differences could be found between the two groups in stone-free rate [risk ratio (RR): 1.03, P = 0.26], hemoglobin drop (WMD: -0.03, P = 0.85), and rates of postoperative fever (RR: 0.53, P = 0.11) and transfusion (RR: 0.79, P = 0.41). Sensitivity analysis after excluding CCS revealed results similar to previous findings. Total tubeless PCNL would be superior to standard PCNL in reducing operation time, hospital stay and postoperative analgesic requirement without significantly more adverse events.

Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy with Ureter Catheter: A Safe and Effective form of mPCNL Offers Better Quality of Life.

OBJECTIVE: To compare outcomes and postoperative quality of life (QoL) among patients with kidney stone who received mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPCNL), partial tubeless mPCNL or mPCNL with ureter catheter in a prospective randomized clinical trial. METHODS: From May 2017 to December 2017, 60 patients with kidney stone who underwent mPCNL were randomized into 3 groups: Group I (mPCNL), Group II (partial tubeless mPCNL), Group III (mPCNL with ureter catheter). We evaluated perioperative characteristics, stone clearance, analgesic requirements and QoL by using the Wisconsin Stone QOL questionnaire. RESULTS: The age, gender, stone diameter, body mass index, length of operation, drop in hemoglobin and stone-free rates for the 3 groups were similar among these groups. However, the postoperative visual analog scale and the analgesic requirement in Group II were significantly the lowest (p < 0.05). According to Wisconsin Stone QOL questionnaire, compared to Group I, statistical significant difference in the QoL was seen in Group II and III, indicating a meaningful and immediate improvement in the postoperative QoL following mPCNL. CONCLUSION: Compared with standard and partial tubeless mPCNL, mPCNL with ureter catheter is a safe and useful form of mPCNL, which can offer better QoL and is more cost effective.

[Prevention of bleeding during tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy].

INTRODUCTION: Nephrostomy tube placed after percutaneous removal of kidney stones can cause pain and discomfort in the early postoperative period [1, 2]. A tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is considered as alternative approach. However, the most serious complication after tubeless procedure is a development of active uncontrolled bleeding from percutaneous tract in the early postoperative period. AIM: To improve the results of surgical treatment of kidney stones by evaluation of efficiency of using hemostatic matrix during tubeless PCNL. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 113 patients with large kidney stones undergone to the tubeless PCNL for the past 9 years in our clinic. The external or internal stent was put for the drainage of upper urinary tract for 2 and 14 days, respectively. All patients were divided into 2 groups, depending on severity of bleeding (group 1 - no bleeding vs. group 2 - mild bleeding). Each group was further divided into two subgroups based on the technique and type of drainage of upper urinary tract at the end of the surgery. In the main group (n=74) the hemostatic matrix based on lyophilized thrombin 2000 IU was injected in percutaneous tract at the end of the surgery. The control group included 39 patients who underwent mini-PCNL without using hemostatic matrix. The blood loss, intensity of urine leakage from percutaneous tract (duration, visual analog scale) and degree of fluid extravasation in pararenal fat estimated by US were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean operative time was 47.5+/-3.6 min (52, 58, 38 and 49 min in subgroup I, II, III and control group, respectively). Hemoglobin drop was 9.3+/-4.1, 12.1+/-7.5, 14.6+/-11.2 and 10.6+/-5.9 in subgroups I, II, III and in the control group, respectively, while duration of hematuria was 16.1, 20.3, 28.5 and 22.9 hours, respectively. Fluid extravasation in pararenal space was found in 1 out 7 patients in subgroup III and control group, respectively (p<0.05). The dilatation of collection system (after double-J) persisted in 18.1%, 20% 22.2% and 13.3% cases in subgroup I, II, III and control group, respectively. There were no significant differences in other evaluated parameters. In 1 case in the control group there was severe bleeding which required selective embolization of the renal artery. CONCLUSION: The use of hemostatic matrix is an additional important measure which allows to prevent active bleeding from the percutaneous tract in early postoperative period. Moreover, the hemostatic matrix contributes to the sealing of tract and reduces the risk of fluid extravasation in pararenal space after mini-PCNL.

Should mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MiniPNL/Miniperc) be the ideal tract for medium-sized renal calculi (15-30 mm)?

INTRODUCTION: Reducing the percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) tract size reduces the morbidity associated with the procedure. Prolonged procedure time is a concern. Modification in technique required is to fragment the stone into smaller particles and remove them using the vacuum cleaner effect. This prospective study compares the efficacy and morbidity of reducing the tract size from the standard 24-16.5 Fr for stones sized from 16 to 30 mm. METHODS: 123 patients were enrolled in this prospective study and distributed into 2 groups based on the tract size used (group A 16.5/17.5 Fr Miniperc, N = 61 and group B: 22/24 Fr standard PCNL, N = 62). Critical factors assessed were procedure time, fluoroscopy time, blood loss, pain score, stone clearance status and complications. RESULTS: Both the groups were comparable with respect to age, creatinine and stone size. The blood loss (hemoglobin and PCV drop) was significantly less for group A (p < 0.001). Both the groups were comparable with regards to the pain score (p > 0.05). Nephrostomy was placed in 3 patients in group A and 14 patients in group B (p = 0.01). There was no significant difference in the procedure time amongst the 2 groups. A total of 9 patients (4 in group A and 5 in group B) had residual fragments greater than 3 mm. CONCLUSION: The 16.5 Fr Miniperc tract offers lower morbidity in terms of blood loss and maintains stone clearance comparable to larger 24 Fr tract size. It should be the ideal size used for medium sized renal stones.

Comparison of super-mini PCNL (SMP) versus Miniperc for stones larger than 2 cm: a propensity score-matching study.

PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy and safety of Super-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (SMP, F12-F14) and Miniperc (F18) in the treatment of renal stones of 2-4 cm in size. METHODS: A prospective comparative analysis of outcomes of patients who underwent SMP and Miniperc for treatment of 2-4 cm renal stones was conducted between July 2014 and January 2017. Demographic data, stone criteria, operative technique, complications, blood transfusion, hemoglobin decrease, stone-free rate (SFR) and length of hospital stay were compared between the two groups. Propensity score-matching (PSM) analysis was performed to further compare the outcomes between the two groups. RESULTS: 79 and 257 patients underwent SMP and Miniperc, respectively. After matching, 73 patients in each group were included. The stone burden was comparable for both groups (3.0 ± 1.1 vs 3.2 ± 0.7 cm, p = 0.577). Mean operation time was not significant different between two groups (p = 0.115), while the hospital stay of SMP was much shorter than Miniperc (2.6 ± 1.4 vs 5.2 ± 1.8, p < 0.0001). Both groups had similar SFRs in postoperative 1 day and at 1 month follow-up (p = 0.326, p = 0.153), while SMP achieved a markedly higher tubeless rate than Miniperc (84.9 vs 47.9%, p < 0.0001). The total complication rate was significantly lower in SMP (16.4 vs 41.1%, p = 0.0001), and the SIRS rate was markedly lower in SMP group (1.4 vs 12.3%, p = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS: SMP is equally effective as Miniperc in the treatment of moderate renal calculi, and has the significant advantage in hospital duration and tubeless rate.

Supra-costal tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy is not associated with increased complication rate: a prospective study of safety and efficacy of supra-costal versus sub-costal access.

BACKGROUND: To assess the morbidities of tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) using supra-costal access and re-evaluate traditional concept of increased complications with supra-costal access. METHODS: From January 2010 to December 2014, a single surgeon performed 118 consecutive one-stage fluoroscopic guided PCNL's for complex renal and upper ureteral stone. Our definition for complex renal stone is defined as partial or complete staghorn stone, multiple renal stones in more than 2 calyxes, obstructive uretero-pelvic stone > 2 cm, and a renal stone in single functional kidney. Inclusion criteria include: staghorn stones, renal calculi > 2 cm in diameter, upper ureteral stone > 1.5 cm in diameter. Exclusion criteria for tubeless PCNL include: significant bleeding or perforation of the collecting system, large residue stone, multiple PCNL tract and obstructive renal anatomy. Morbidity, operation time, analgesia requirement, length of hospital stay, stone- free rate, were analyzed. RESULTS: Of the 118 consecutive PCNL, eighty-six patients underwent tubeless PCNL (56 supra-costal and 30 sub-costal) and included in our prospective follow-up period. The mean age, operation side, stone locations were similar. The male to female ratio is higher in supra-costal than sub-costal. Large renal stones and staghorn stones makes up for most patients (supra-costal: 75%, sub-costal: 80%). The stone-free rate of supra-costal group was 59% (33/56) and in sub-costal group was 50% (15/30). The operative times, length of stay, post-op analgesic use, hematocrit change was similar in both groups. The overall complication rate is 6% [supra-costal (1/56), sub-costal (4/30)] with the majority being infectious complications. CONCLUSIONS: Supra-costal access above 12th rib during tubeless PCNL is safe and effective procedure and is not associated with higher incidence of post-op complications in experience hands.

Tubeless Pediatric Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: Assessment of Feasibility and Safety.

INTRODUCTION: Tubeless pediatric percutaneous nephrolithotomy (TL-PCNL) is evolving and adult criteria are being safely applied to children. We examine the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of pediatric TL. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of pediatric (≤18 years) PCNL patients at our institute was done. Patients eligible for TL but underwent tube (T) PCNL due to surgeon choice or protocol were compared with TL. Only children with 100% stone clearance were included, and those receiving nephrostomy for intraoperative complications were excluded from the study. Demographic, baseline, and stone characteristics were matched. Safety, outcome, and complications were assessed. Group T was classified into large bore (22F-LB) and small bore (16F-SB) based on nephrostomy size. Statistical analysis was done. RESULTS: A total of 46 children were eligible - TL in 17 (37%) and T in 29 (63%). Among T, SB was performed in 6/29 (20.7%) and LB in 23/29 (79.3%). TL had fewer complications. Urinary leak developed in 2 (6.9%) patients in T. Eight (27.6%) patients in T and 3 (17.7%) patients in TL had supracostal access with complications similar to infracostal access. SB had significantly lesser and analgesic requirement than LB. SB and TL had similar LOH and analgesic requirement. Adult expanded criteria such as supracostal access, 2 punctures, prior renal surgery, and larger tract size were feasible. CONCLUSIONS: TL is safe, feasible, and less morbid alternative to T in uncomplicated pediatric nephrolithiasis. TL is feasible with supracostal access, 2 punctures, adult tract size (24F), and anomalous kidneys. SB nephrostomy is reasonable when tube is indicated.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: technique.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is considered to be the first line of treatment for large renal stones. Though PCNL comes with higher morbidity, its efficacy is unbeaten by other minimally invasive modalities. However, potential complications, such as bleeding, occur. Improved skills and modifications of the procedure may reduce the probability of adverse outcomes. This article discusses the current trends and standards in PCNL technique with special focus on all important steps as positioning, access, instruments, dilation, disintegration, and exit, including outcomes, complication management, and training modalities.

Tubeless versus standard percutaneous nephrolithotomy: an update meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: To update a previously published systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). METHODS: A systematic literature search of EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library was performed to confirm relevant studies. The scientific literature was screened in accordance with the predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. After quality assessment and data extraction from the eligible studies, a meta-analysis was conducted using Stata SE 12.0. RESULTS: Fourteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1148 patients were included. Combined results demonstrated that tubeless PCNL was significantly associated with shorter operative time (weighted mean difference [WMD], -3.79 min; 95% confidence interval [CI], -6.73 to -0.85; P = 0.012; I2 = 53.8%), shorter hospital stay (WMD, -1.27 days; 95% CI, -1.65 to -0.90; P < 0.001; I2 = 98.7%), faster time to return to normal activity (WMD, -4.24 days; 95% CI, -5.76 to -2.71; P < 0.001; I2 = 97.5%), lower postoperative pain scores (WMD, -16.55 mm; 95% CI, -21.60 to -11.50; P < 0.001; I2 = 95.7%), less postoperative analgesia requirements (standard mean difference, -1.09 mg; 95% CI, -1.35 to -0.84; P < 0.001; I2 = 46.8%), and lower urine leakage (Relative risk [RR], 0.30; 95% CI 0.15 to 0.59; P = 0.001; I2 = 41.2%). There were no significant differences in postoperative hemoglobin reduction (WMD, -0.02 g/dL; 95% CI, -0.04 to 0.01; P = 0.172; I2 = 41.5%), stone-free rate (RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.97 to 1.05; P = 0.776; I2 = 0.0%), postoperative fever rate (RR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.57 to 1.93; P = 0.867; I2 = 0.0%), or blood transfusion rate (RR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.36 to 1.70; P = 0.538; I2 = 0.0%). The results of subgroup analysis were consistent with the overall findings. The sensitivity analysis indicated that most results remained constant when total tubeless or partial tubeless or mini-PCNL studies were excluded respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Tubeless PCNL is an available and safe option in carefully evaluated and selected patients. It is significantly associated with the advantages of shorter hospital stay, shorter time to return to normal activity, lower postoperative pain scores, less analgesia requirement, and reduced urine leakage.