Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery Group Research Articles

Efficacy of Flexible Ureteroscopy Lithotripsy and Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in the Treatment of Patients with Kidney Stones and Their Impact on Inflammatory Response and Renal Function.

Kidney stones are one of the most common benign diseases in urology. As technology updates and iterates, more minimally invasive and laparoscopic surgeries with higher safety performance appear. This paper explores the effectiveness of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in treating kidney stones, focusing on their effects on inflammatory responses and renal function. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 200 patients with kidney stones treated in our hospital between June 2019 and June 2023. 100 patients who underwent RIRS were included in the RIRS group. Another 100 patients who underwent PCNL treatment were included in the PCNL group. The intraoperative blood loss, operation duration, and hospitalization time of the two groups of patients were recorded and compared. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the levels of inflammatory factors in the serum of the two groups of patients: [serum amyloid A (SAA), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP)] and renal function index [blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Scr) and serum cystatin (Cys-c)]. The two groups of patients were recorded separately: Postoperative complications and stone-free rate. Operation duration was longer for the RIRS group than the PCNL group, which exhibited significantly less intraoperative blood loss and shorter hospital stays (p < 0.05). Before surgery, there was no statistically significant difference in the serum levels of SAA, IL-6, and CRP between the two groups of patients (p > 0.05). On the first day after surgery, the serum SAA levels in both groups were lower than before surgery, IL-6 and CRP levels were higher than before surgery, and the serum levels of SAA, IL-6, and CRP in the RIRS group were significantly lower than those in the PCNL group. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Before surgery, there was no statistically significant difference in the serum BUN, Scr, and Cys-c levels between the two groups of patients (p > 0.05). On the first day after surgery, the serum BUN, Scr, and Cys-c levels of the two groups of patients were significantly higher than those before surgery. The serum BUN, Scr, and Cys-c levels of the RIRS group were significantly lower than those of the PCNL group, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Both surgical methods have sound stone-clearing effects regarding long-term stone clearance rates 1 month and 3 months after surgery (p > 0.05). PCNL had a better stone clearance rate on the 2nd postoperative day (p < 0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications in the RIRS group was significantly lower than that in the PCNL group, and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). For kidney stones ≤2 cm, PCNL showed higher stone clearance rates on the second postoperative day. However, RIRS and PCNL demonstrated adequate long-term stone clearance at 1 and 3 months post-surgery. Both surgical methods are safe and effective, and RIRS is safer than PCNL. Compared with PCNL, RIRS is a new method of kidney stone operation, which has less trauma to the patient's body and fewer complications after the operation, speeding up the recovery process of the patient.

Comparison of mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy and retrograde intrarenal surgery for 1-2 cm renal stones: A single-center experience.

Background: The management of renal stones has undergone significant advancements in recent years, with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) emerging as minimally invasive alternatives to traditional Pyelolithotomy. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Mini-PCNL and RIRS for renal stones measuring 1-2 cm, focusing on operative time, stone clearance, hospital stay, and the need for ancillary procedures. Methodology: This retrospective study collected data from the medical records of patients admitted to The Department of Urology at The Kidney Centre, Karachi, between January 1, 2021, and August 31, 2022. The study included 100 patients who underwent RIRS and 129 patients who underwent Mini-PCNL. Results: It was found that the operative time was statistically similar in both groups. However, the length of hospital stay was significantly higher in the Mini-PCNL group (more than 2 days in 88.4%), whereas in the RIRS group, the majority of patients stayed ≤ 2 days (78%). Overall stone clearance was 82.1%, with a slightly higher clearance rate in patients who underwent Mini-PCNL (85.3%) compared to RIRS (78%), though the p-value was not statistically significant. Conclusion: For renal stones sized 1-2 cm, both RIRS and Mini-PCNL demonstrate efficient treatment options with comparable stone-free rates. RIRS appears more comfortable and less morbid than Mini-PCNL, with a shorter hospital stay. Although Mini-PCNL requires an extended hospital stay to treat 1- to 2-cm renal stones, it is associated with fewer complications and a reduced need for a JJ stent, making it a viable alternative to RIRS in certain cases.

Frequency of Metabolic Syndrome in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: The management of renal stones has undergone significant advancements in recent years, with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) emerging as minimally invasive alternatives to traditional Pyelolithotomy. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Mini-PCNL and RIRS for renal stones measuring 1-2 cm, focusing on operative time, stone clearance, hospital stay, and the need for ancillary procedures. Methodology: This retrospective study collected data from the medical records of patients admitted to The Department of Urology at The Kidney Centre, Karachi, between January 1, 2021, and August 31, 2022. The study included 100 patients who underwent RIRS and 129 patients who underwent Mini-PCNL. Results: It was found that the operative time was statistically similar in both groups. However, the length of hospital stay was significantly higher in the Mini-PCNL group (more than 2 days in 88.4%), whereas in the RIRS group, the majority of patients stayed ≤ 2 days (78%). Overall stone clearance was 82.1%, with a slightly higher clearance rate in patients who underwent Mini-PCNL (85.3%) compared to RIRS (78%), though the p- value was not statistically significant. Conclusion: For renal stones sized 1-2 cm, both RIRS and Mini-PCNL demonstrate efficient treatment options with comparable stone-free rates. RIRS appears more comfortable and less morbid than Mini-PCNL, with a shorter hospital stay. Although Mini-PCNL requires an extended hospital stay to treat 1- to 2-cm renal stones, it is associated with fewer complications and a reduced need for a JJ stent, making it a viable alternative to RIRS in certain cases.

Mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy versus retrograde intrarenal surgery for the treatment of 10-20-mm kidney stones in patients with ileal conduit: a comparative study.

Both mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPNL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) are two major strategies for the endourological management of kidney stones. In the current study, we aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of mPNL and RIRS for the treatment of 10-20 mm kidney stones in patients with ileal conduit. Patients with a history of bladder cancer and ileal conduit who had undergone mPNL or RIRS for unilateral kidney stones 10-20 mm in size between January 2015 and June 2022 were retrospectively included. Baseline characteristics and perioperative outcomes were analyzed and compared between mPNL and RIRS. The failure rate of the initial surgery was 2.5% and 18.9% for mPNL and RIRS, respectively (P=0.025). In total, 39 and 30 patients were finally included in the mPNL and RIRS groups. One-session stone-free rate (SFR) was higher in the mPNL group than the RIRS group (97.4% vs. 66.7%, P=0.002). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to operation time, postoperative hospitalization, complications according to Clavien-Dindo classification, as well as the change in hemoglobin, creatinine, procalcitonin, and pain Visual Analogue Scale Score before and after the surgery. Moreover, Results were consistent across subgroup analyses in patients stratified by years (2015-2018 and 2019-2022). Both mPNL and RIRS were feasible and safe for the treatment of 10-20 mm kidney stones in patients with ileal conduit. However, mPNL achieved superior SFR outcomes with a similar incidence of complications, and it might be a sensible alternative for selected patients.

Comparative Analysis of Surgical Outcomes of Flexible Ureteroscopy and Da Vinci Robotic Surgery in Community Patients with Renal Pelvic Stones Larger than 2 cm.

Background and Objectives: This study evaluated and compared the surgical outcomes of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) lithotripsy versus robot-assisted laparoscopic pyelolithotomy (RAPL) in community patients with renal pelvic stones larger than 2 cm. Materials and Methods: A total of 77 patients who underwent RIRS (RIRS group, n = 50) or RAPL (RAPL group, n = 27) at our institution between December 2016 and July 2022 were recruited. A single surgeon performed all surgical operations. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative data were recorded. The study evaluated various clinical outcomes, namely, urinary tract infections, analgesic use, emergency room readmissions, stone clearance rates, surgical complications, and medical expenditures associated with the treatment courses, and compared them between the groups. Results: The RAPL group had a larger mean stone diameter and higher degree of hydronephrosis than the RIRS group did. The RIRS group had superior outcomes regarding operative time, length of postoperative hospital stay, surgical wound pain, and medical expenditures. Regarding postoperative outcomes, comparable rates of postoperative urinary tract infection, prolonged analgesic use, and emergency room readmissions were observed between the groups. However, the RAPL group had a higher stone clearance rate than the RIRS group did (81.5% vs. 52.0%, p = 0.014). Conclusions: For the surgical treatment of renal pelvis stones larger than 2 cm, RAPL has a superior stone clearance rate than RIRS; however, RIRS achieves superior outcomes in terms of medical expenditures, length of hospital stay, and surgical wound pain. Both procedures were equally safe.

Enhanced recovery after retrograde intra-renal surgery (RIRS) in comparison with mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (Mini-PCNL) for renal stone treatment

The study presents a comparative analysis of the mini-percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (mini-PCNL) and retrograde nephrolithotripsy (RIRS) with a logistic analysis of outcomes and complications. The prospective study included 50 patients diagnosed with urolithiasis from 2018 to 2021 in the urological hospitals in Irkutsk. Patients were divided into two groups: RIRS (group I, n = 23) and Mini-PCNL (group II, n = 27). The comparison groups are statistically homogeneous. Both procedures equally lead to high stone free rates (SFR > 1 mm, 91.3% vs 85.1%; p = 0.867; SFR > 2 mm, 95.6% vs 92.5%; p = 0.936). The intergroup analysis of the total operation time (and lithotripsy) demonstrated similar times (p > 0.05). Postoperative complications of classes II-III (Clavien-Dindo) in the early and late postoperative period developed rarely and were comparable (p > 0.05). Class I complications were predominant in the PCNL group (p = 0.007). Some parameters demonstrated the superiority of RIRS over PCNL: less pronounced pain syndrome (p = 0.002), less drainage time (p < 0.001), no postoperative hematuria (p = 0.002), shorter hospitalization and total treatment period (p < 0.001). The study highlighted the positive effect of the one-day surgery principle on the risk of developing postoperative hematuria, urinary infection, or severe postoperative pain. RIRS and mini-PCNL have similar effectiveness, but RIRS meets the criteria of the enhanced recovery program more than PCNL.

Minimally invasive nephrolithotomy versus retrograde intrarenal surgery in surgical management of Lower calyceal stones: A systematic review with meta-analysis.

The efficacy and safety of minimally invasive nephrolithotomy (MPCNL) versus retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) was assessed for lower calyceal (LC) stones. Our team conducted a systematic literature search up to December, 2022, using PUBMED, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library. The study was registered in PROSPERO, CRD 42021247197. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of MPCNL versus RIRS for LC stones were collected. Heterogeneity among the studies was assessed using the χ2 test based on the Q and I2 tests. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using a fixed model if I2 < 50%; otherwise, a random-effects model was chosen. The primary outcomes were the 3-month stone-free rate (3SFR) and total complications, while the secondary outcomes were the operating time, hospital stay, hemoglobin reduction, bleeding, postoperative fever and complications with the Clavien-Dindo system. A subgroup analysis of 10-20mm LC stones was also designed. A total of 7 peer-reviewed trials comprising 711 patients were identified. No statistical differences were observed in the heterogeneity results of the 3SFR or total complications (P>0.1, I2 < 50%). Compared with RIRS, MPCNL had an unfavorable safety profile, resulting in total complications (OR: 1.87 [95%CI: 1.05, 3.33]; P=0.03), hemoglobin reduction (OR: 0.81 [95%CI: 0.15, 1.47]; P=0.02) and complications with Grade I (OR: 5.52 [95%CI: 1.34, 22.83]; P=0.02) but an improved efficacy and 3SFR (OR: 2.43 [95%CI: 1.48, 3.97]; P=0.0004). As for the 10-20mm LC stones, compared with RIRS, MPCNL also had an unfavorable safety profile, resulting in total complications (OR: 2.47 [95%CI: 1.20, 5.07]; P=0.01), complications with Grade I (OR: 4.97 [95%CI: 0.99, 25.01]; P=0.05) and an increased hospital stay (OR: 2.46 [95%CI: 2.26, 2.66]; P=0.00001) but an improved efficacy and 3SFR (OR: 3.10 [95%CI: 1.61, 5.99]; P=0.0008). The efficacy effect of MPCNL and safety effect of RIRS were nearly equal for both stones sized < 20mm (NNT = 17, NNH = 20) and stones sized 10-20mm (NNT = 20, NNH = 13). No statistical difference was found between the MPCNL and RIRS groups for the rest of outcomes. Both MPCNL and RIRS are safe and effective management methods. Moreover, compared with RIRS, MPCNL had an unfavorable safety profile but improved efficacy for LC stones of ≤20mm or 10-20mm, and the differences were statistically significant. The relative profit of efficacy of MPCNL was similar to the relative profit of safety of RIRS.

A Newly Developed Hematuria Grading System May Predict the Status of Stone-Free and Acute Pyelonephritis of Minimally Invasive Renal Stone Surgery.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of hematuria and the presence of clots during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) to predict surgical outcomes. The data of patients who underwent RIRS and mPCNL were analyzed separately. A hematuria grading (HG) system was classified into five grades based on the presence of blood clots and any visible stones according to the irrigation settings. Inter-observer reliability of the grading system was assessed using intra-class correlation and Spearman's rho. The HG system showed high agreement among examiners, with high intra-class reliability and a strong correlation between RIRS and mPCNL groups. The stone density of the Houns-field unit was the most important factor in determining the hematuria across the development and validation groups of RIRS and mPCNL patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the HG system was a significant predictor for remnant stones in the PCNL group and the probability of acute pyelonephritis or sepsis in the RIRS group. The high hematuria group showed lower basketing difficulty with the basket with a blue marker instrument than with others. The new HG system shows excellent inter-observer reliability and a correlation with a gradual increase in stone density and surgical difficulty.

A Comparative Study on Outcomes of Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS), Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) for Lower Pole Renal Calculi of &lt; 1.5 cm

Background: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), established in the 1970s, has replaced open surgery for large stones. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), once the preferred first-line treatment for small-to-medium-sized renal stones, has a questionable charm owing to patient reluctance for repeated treatments and hospitalizations since ESWL has a reduced stone-free rate (SFR). Flexible ureterorenoscopy, also referred to as RIRS, originally applied in the management of lower pole stones resistant to ESWL, is increasingly being used as a primary modality to manage lower pole stones, and it may potentially achieve higher SFR than ESWL and lower morbidity than PCNL for patients with low-volume stone diseases. Objectives: Observations were made to compare ESWL, mini PCNL, and RIRS in managing lower pole renal calculi of &lt; 1.5 cm. Methods: This observational study encompassed all patients with lower pole renal stones with &lt; 1.5 cm diameter and &lt; 1000 HU density who underwent mini PCNL, RIRS, or ESWL from January 2020 to July 2021. There were 40, 60, and 60 patients in the RIRS, mini PCNL, and ESWL groups, respectively, for all of whom preoperative CT urogram was performed. The patients were informed of the procedures, and their informed consent was obtained. The stone-free rates of the three modalities were compared, and the outcomes were statistically analyzed. Results: The mean stone sizes in the present study were 12.99 × 3.56 mm in mini PCNL, 10.62 × 2.51 mm in RIRS, and 10.93 × 3.13 mm in ESWL. The mini PCNL group's SFR was significantly higher than those of other groups: 59 (98.3%) in mini PCNL, 34 (85%) in RIRS, and 46 (76.7%) in ESWL (P = 0.002). Out of the 60 patients in the mini PCNL group, only one (1.7%) required an ancillary procedure, while only six (10%) out of 40 patients in the RIRS group and 11 (18.33%) out of 60 patients in the ESWL group required the ancillary procedure (P = 0.031). Conclusions: For lower pole renal calculi &lt; 1.5 cm, mini PCNL has the highest SFR, followed by RIRS and ESWL, in sequence. The ancillary procedure rate was 18.33% in the ESWL group, which was higher than those of mini PCNL (1.7%) and RIRS (10%).

Comparison of stone-free rate between percutaneous nephrolithotomy and retrograde intrarenal surgery.

The management of urolithiasis in the kidney has been drastically changed in the era of endourology, mainly consisting of three surgical procedures: extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Since ESWL is usually less invasive via ambulatory clinic routes, this study aimed to examine the stone-free rate (SFR) between PCNL and RIRS. We retrospectively reviewed patients who had renal stones and were treated with either PCNL or RIRS from June 2016 to June 2018. Staghorn stones, stones with diameters <1 cm, and stones with diameters >2 cm were excluded. Patients who underwent multiple surgeries for bilateral renal stones and those with graft kidney stones were excluded from the study. X-ray, sonography, and/or computed tomography (CT) were used to calculate the size of the stones. Follow-up was evaluated by the same image examination within three months after surgery. Stone-free was defined as no residual stone or the presence of asymptomatic calculi <4 mm. The operation time was defined as a skin-to-skin interval. Following exclusion criteria, there were 39 patients in each arm, with no difference in age, sex, or any other demographic data. The average stone size in the PCNL and RIRS groups was 16.3 and 14.0 mm, respectively ( p = 0.009). There was no significant difference in SFR (71.8% vs 61.5%, p = 0.337); the operation time was significant longer ( p < 0.001), and the hospital stay was significantly shorter ( p < 0.001) in the RIRS group. PCNL and RIRS are both feasible options for managing kidney stones. However, the initial stone size might affect the selection of operation. The SFR in the PCNL group was numerically but not statistically higher. The RIRS group, on the other hand, had a longer operation time but a shorter hospital stays.

What Is the Ideal Treatment for 20-30 mm Kidney Stones? Comparative Outcomes of 1197 Patients.

Background: The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (SWL), retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPNL), and standard-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (stPNL) for the treatment of 20-30 mm kidney stones. Methods: The records of 1197 patients (SWL = 149, RIRS = 205, mPNL = 525, and stPNL = 318) from 8 centers were reviewed retrospectively. Four procedures were compared for stone-free rates (SFRs), auxiliary treatment, and associated complications. Results: Initial SFRs were 43.6%, 54.6%, 86.7%, and 87.7% in SWL, RIRS, mPNL, and stPNL, respectively (P < .001), whereas the final SFRs were 71.8%, 80%, 90.5%, and 89.6% (P < .001). The rate of auxiliary treatment in the groups was 38.3%, 26.8%, 5%, and 4.4%, respectively (P < .001). The initial and final SFRs in the mPNL and stPNL groups were higher than those in SWL and RIRS groups (P < .001). The rate for auxiliary treatment was lower in the mPNL and stPNL groups (P < .001). The operation time was longer in the RIRS group (P = .005). According to the Clavien-Dindo classification, the complication rate in the SWL group was lower than that in the surgical approaches (P < .001); however, no statistical difference was detected between RIRS, mPNL, and stPNL groups. mPNL and stPNL had a higher success rate than RIRS or SWL for treating 20-30 mm kidney stones. Conclusion: In the treatment of 2-3 cm renal stones, RIRS and PNL were more effective than SWL to obtain a better SFR and less auxiliary treatment rate. Compared with RIRS, mPNL and stPNL provided a higher SFR with similar complication rates.

Outcomes in Lower Pole Kidney Stone Management Using Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Compared With Retrograde Intra Renal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background Because of the anatomical properties of the inferior calyx, lower pole stones are difficult to remove through the ureter, even if the stones are fragmented. Retrograde intra-renal surgery (RIRS) is typically employed to treat the smaller lower pole stones (1.0-2.0 cm) while percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is primarily used to treat the larger diameter stones or when RIRS has failed to clear the stones. This study was conducted to compare mini-PCNL and RIRS for the management of lower pole kidney stones in terms of stone clearance. Material and methods This randomized control trial was conducted in the Department of Urology, Shaikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore from October 2020 to December 2022. A total of 150 patients between the ages of 18 and 80 years with a kidney stone size of 10-20 mm at the lower pole were included. Patients with positive urine culture, anatomical abnormalities, uncontrolled diabetes (hemoglobin{Hb}A1c >9%), and undergone previous renal surgery were excluded. Group A patients were treated with mini-PCNL, while group B patients were managed with RIRS. Follow-up visits were planned four weeks postoperatively with CT KUB (computed tomography of kidneys, ureters, and bladder) plain to assess stone clearance. Results The mean age in group A was 43.27 ± 13.86 years, while in group B was 45.32 ± 14.14 years. Out of 150 patients, 102 (68.0%) were males and 48 (32.0%) were females. Mean size of the stone was 15.30 ± 2.21 mm. Stone clearance after mini-PCNL was found in 69 (92.0%) patients and after RIRS in 59 (78.67%) patients (p-value = 0.021). Mean hospital stay after RIRS was 1.1 ± 0.09 days, while it was 2.3 ± 0.64 days after mini-PCNL (p-value < 0.001). Two (2.67%) patients in the mini-PCNL group developed bleeding postoperatively. The stone clearance rate in older patients (51 to 80 years) was significantly higher in the mini-PCNL group than RIRS group. Similarly, the stone clearance rate in female patients and in patients with larger stones (16 to 20 mm) was found to be higher in mini-PCNL group as compared to the RIRS group. Conclusion This study concluded that both mini-PCNL and RIRS are safe and efficient techniques for treating lower pole kidney stones with a size of 11-15 mm. However, mini-PCNL has a higher stone clearance rate compared to RIRS in the treatment of stones larger than 15 mm in size. This study further suggested that patients treated with mini-PCNL had a longer hospital stay compared to patients treated with RIRS.

Comparative study of Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery and Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy among Renal Stone Patients

Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (Mini-PCNL) and Retrograde intra-renal surgery (RIRS), can be carried out in a single stage or numerous phases depending on the burden, size, and/or location of the stone. Objective: To check the efficacy of Mini-Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy and Retrograde intra-renal surgery on adult patients with a renal stones. Methods: A total of 101 patients were included who underwent RIRS (n=51) or mini-PCNL (n=50) at Doctors Hospital Jail Chowk in Gujrat, Pakistan in 2021. Retrospective observations were made on 101 individuals who received RIRS or mini-PCNL. Results: The mean hospital stay time was significantly lower in RIRS group i.e., 01.81 ± 0.59 days as compared to mini-PCNL group (p value &lt;0.001). The operation time was 63.72 ± 14.94 minutes for mini-PCNL and 72.65 ± 15.83 minutes for RIRS group. The stone clearance rate was 92% in mini-PCNL group and 82.35% in RIRS group. Conclusions: In conclusion, we found that both mini-PCNL and RIRS are safe and effective ways to treat renal calculi. RIRS is a non-invasive, practical therapeutic option with reduced hospitalizations times, morbidity, and complication rates for these individuals.

Comparison of retrograde intrarenal surgery and percutaneous nephrolithotomy results for 20-30 mm kidney stones: A matched-pair analysis

Objective: To compare the results of retrograde intrarenal surgery and percutaneous nephrolithotomy for 20-30 mm kidney stones.Material and Methods: The demographic, radiologic, clinic and surgery related data of 324 patients who underwent retrograde intrarenal surgery and percutaneous nephrolithotomy for 20-30 mm kidney stones between January 2013 and July 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were divided into two roups as retrograde intrarenal surgery group and percutaneous nephrolithotomy group according to the surgery performed. After matching two groups in terms of age, number of stones, location of stones, stone size and stone density, 122 patients were included in the study (61 patients in retrograde intrarenal group and 61 patients in percutaneous nephrolithotomy group as 1:1).Results: The success rate of retrograde intrarenal surgery group (78.7%) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy group (80.2%) were similar (p=0.823). There was no difference between two groups in terms of infective and non-infective complications (respectively, p=0.752 and p=0.61). There were statistically significant difference between the two groups in duration of operation and hospitalization. The median operation time was 70 (30-100) minutes and the median hospital stay was 1 (1-28) days in the RIRS group, while the median operation time was 90 (50-160) minutes and the median hospital stay was 4 (2-10) days in the PNL group (p&amp;lt;0.001).Conclusion: Retrograde intrarenal surgery is a good alternative in the surgical treatment of 20-30 mm kidney stones with similar success and complication rates and also shorter operation time and hospitalization time.

Comparison Between Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy and Retrograde Flexible Nephrolithotripsy in Obese Patients with 2 - 4 cm Renal Stones

Background: Nowadays, because of remarkable advancements in retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), modest attention toward this procedure as the second or alternative choice for renal stones treatment has been drawn. Objectives: In the present study, we compared RIRS and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) outcomes in treating obese patients with 2 - 4 cm renal stones. Methods: Eighty-two patients who underwent PCNL (n = 40) and RIRS (n = 42) between June 2015 and December 2018 at the Department of Urology of Sina Hospital were enrolled in our retrospective cohort study. Results: After the first surgery session, stone-free rates for the RIRS group were 92.9% and for the PCNL group was 95% (P value = 0.52). The mean operation time for the RIRS and PCNL groups were 71.6 ± 11 and 93.3 ± 12.2, respectively (P &lt; 0.001). The hospitalization stay for all of the PCNL group was more than 1 day (mean = 2.5 days); however, that for the majority of the RIRS group was less than 1 day (P &lt; 0.001). The analgesic use in the RIRS group was significantly lower than in the PCNL group (9.0 ± 5.5, 61.8 ± 13.6, respectively; P &lt; 0.001). The overall complication rates were higher in the RIRS group. However, none of them were statically significant (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusions: According to satisfactory outcomes obtained in the RIRS groups, it can be concluded that RIRS can be applied as an alternative or even the first choice in obese patients with 2 - 4 cm renal stones.

A Scoring System for Optimal Selection of Endoscopic Treatment for 1-2cm Lower Pole Renal Calculi.

To explore the establishment of a scoring system that can provide a reference for clinical decision making regarding the endoscopic treatment of 1-2 cm lower pole stones (LPS). The data of patients with renal calculi who were treated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) or retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in three hospitals from January 2013 to December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. Multivariable logistic analysis was performed to determine the statistically significant indicators and regression coefficients, which were used to construct the scoring system. The stone-free rate (SFR) and postoperative complication rates of PCNL and RIRS within the two fractional segments of the scoring system were compared to select the optimal procedures. A total of 137 patients in the PCNL group and 152 patients in the RIRS group were included in this study. Five factors were found to be most predictive of endoscopic treatment choice: stone number, stone diameter, infundibulopelvic angle (IPA), infundibular length (IL), and infundibular width (IW), yielding a total score ranging from 0-5. In the 0-2 segments, the RIRS group had better outcomes than the PCNL group in terms of the postoperative complication rates (6.8% versus 18.0%, P = .026). In segments 3-5, the SFR of the PCNL group was significantly higher than that of the RIRS group (88.5% versus 70.6%, P = .017). Our scoring system was based on the patient's preoperative imaging examination to measure the stone number, stone diameter, IPA, IL and IW. RIRS was recommended at 0-2 segments, and PCNL was recommended at 3-5 segments. This new scoring system is expected to provide guidance for urologists to make endoscopic treatment decisions for 1-2 cm LPS.

Use of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) compared with mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL) in pediatric kidney stones

ObjectiveWe aimed to compare the cost-effectiveness and safety of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL) for pediatric kidney stones management.Patients and methodsNinety pediatric patients with single or multiple renal stones 1–3 cm in diameter were collected prospectively and equally divided into two groups to undergo RIRS or mini-PCNL. The groups were compared for fluoroscopy and operative time, postoperative hospital stay time, stone-free rate (SFR), need for auxiliary procedures, and cost as well as complications.ResultsThere were no differences found between RIRS and mini-PCNL groups with regard to operative time and postoperative DJ stent application, while the mean of fluoroscopy time and postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the RIRS than in the mini-PCNL group. The SFR, auxiliary treatment on residual stones, and complications were comparable. In both groups, no major (Clavien IV–V) complications were observed. The mean cost of RIRS was $1210 and $733 for the mini-PCNL.ConclusionsBoth RIRS and mini-PCNL are effective and safe treatment modalities for pediatric renal stones 10–30 mm in size. However, mini-PCNL is more cost-effective making it a viable alternative to RIRS.

What is the best approach for pediatric kidney stones of moderate-sized between shock wave lithotripsy, ultramini percutaneous nephrolithotomy and retrograde intrarenal surgery?

This study aimed to compare the results of ultramini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (UMP), shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in pediatric patients with kidney stones 10-20mm size. The files of 159 pediatric patients (36 RIRS, 39 SWL, 84 UMP) with kidney stones were reviewed retrospectively. Preoperative age, sex, stone size and location were evaluated. The three methods were compared in terms of operation and fluoroscopy duration, complications with the modified Clavien grading system, and stone-free rate (SFR) in the postoperative first month. The stone burdens of the groups were similar (P = 0.102). At the end of the first month, SFR was higher in the RIRS and UMP groups compared to the SWL group (88.9%, 92.9% and 69.2%, respectively, P = 0.002). UMP had higher SFR for lower pole stones than the other two methods (P = 0.042). There was no difference in complications between the three methods (P = 0.758). SFR was similar for all three methods in all localizations, apart from lower pole stones. UMP had higher SFR for lower pole stones than the other two methods. There was no difference in terms of complications between the three methods.

A comparison among RIRS and MiniPerc for renal stones between 10 and 20 mm using thulium fiber laser (Fiber Dust): a randomized controlled trial

We performed a prospective randomized comparison among Retrograde IntraRenal Surgery (RIRS) and MiniPerc (MP) for stones between 10 and 20mm to evaluate outcomes with the same laser device: Fiber Dust. Patients with a single renal stone between 10 and 20mm were randomized to RIRS (Group A) versus MP (Group B). Exclusion criteria were age < 18 or > 75, presence of acute infection, coagulation impairments, cardiovascular or pulmonary comorbidities. In both groups, the Fiber Dust laser was used. A CT scan after 3months was performed. A negative CT scan or asymptomatic patients with stone fragments < 3mm and a negative urinary culture were the criteria to assess the stone-free status. A statistical analysis was carried out to assess success, complication and retreatment rates and need for auxiliary treatments. Between January 2021 and January 2022, 186 patients were enrolled (90 in Group A and 96 in Group B). Mean stone size was 15.8mm and 14.9mm in Group A and B, respectively (p = 0.23). The overall stone-free rate (SFR) was 73.3% for Group A and 84.4% for Group B. A higher SFR was reached for upper calyceal stones in Group A (90.4%) lower calyceal stones in Group B (91.6%). Retreatment rate (p = 0.31) and auxiliary procedure rate (p = 0.18) were comparable. Complication rate was 5.5% and 5.2% for Groups A and B, respectively. RIRS and MP are both effective to obtain a postoperative SFR with Fiber Dust. According to the stone position one treatment is superior to the other one.

Outcome of Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery and Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in the Treatment of Upper Calyceal Stone of ≥2 cm in Diameter

Back ground: The incidence of renal calculi is rising and more patients are presenting with small renal calculi. The treatment options for renal calculi (d”2 cm) are ESWL, percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). The development of minimal invasive surgery for the treatment of renal calculus has led to an increase in success rates and, at the same time, has decreased the morbidity associated with these treatments. Objective: The study aimed to evaluate outcome of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the treatment of upper calyceal stone of d”2 cm in diameter. Methods: 60 Patients with radiopaque upper calyceal stone (d”2 cm) were admitted and underwent RIRS (Group A) &amp; PCNL (Group B) in Urology department as per inclusion and exclusion criteria by purposive sampling (30 patients in each group). Complete clinical evaluation including history, physical examination, relevant examinations &amp; laboratory investigations were performed. Result: Mean age was 37.23±11.59 years (range 18-62years) in group A and 40.10±11.49 (range 18-65 years) in group B. Mean operative time was significantly lower in group A (90.13 +/- 18.79 min) than group B (107.36 +/- 16.4 min) (p &lt;0.05). Mean volume of irrigation fluid used during surgery, mean drop in the postoperative hemoglobin concentration, hospital stay, mean VAS score at 8 hours &amp; 24 hours after operation were significantly lower in RIRS group than PCNL group (p&lt; 0.05). We achieved a stone clearance of 90.00% in the RIRS group and 96.67% in the PCNL group. The difference in stone clearance in two groups was not statistically significant (p=0.30). Conclusion: The study concluded Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in the treatment of upper calyceal stone of d”2cm in diameter is a feasible, effective and safe treatment option. Given the added morbidity in PCNL, RIRS should be considered standard therapy in these patients. Bangladesh J. Urol. 2021; 24(1): 99-104