Comparison of super-mini-PCNL and flexible ureteroscopy for the management of upper urinary tract calculus (1-2cm) in children.

Abstract

To retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of super-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (SMP) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for children with upper urinary tract calculus (1-2cm). Children with upper urinary tract calculus (1-2cm) who underwent the SMP or RIRS were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into two groups: group SMP, 36patients; and group RIRS, 25patients. Patients were evaluated with KUB radiography or CT after 1month. The collected data were analyzed. The mean stone size was 14.18mm in group SMP, and 14.00mm in group RIRS (p = 0.812). Group RIRS compared to group SMP showed longer operating time [76.3 vs 53.9min (p = 0.002)], and postoperative hospital stay [4.2 vs 2.9days (p = 0.011)]. The overall stone-free rate (SFR) was 94.4% for group SMP, and 60.0% for group RIRS in 1month after operation (p = 0.001). The re-treatment rate was significantly higher in group RIRS compared to group SMP [20.0% vs 0.0% (p = 0.009)]. The complication rate was 5.6%, and 24.0% for groups SMP, and RIRS, respectively (p = 0.036). SMP was more effective than RIRS to obtain a better SFR, less re-treatment rate, and complication rate in children with upper urinary tract calculus (1-2cm).