Treatment Of Kidney Stones Research Articles

Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery: best practices and future perspectives.

Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery (ECIRS) has emerged as a promising technique for the management of large and complex kidney stones, potentially offering advantages over traditional Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL). This study aims to evaluate best practices, outcomes, and future perspectives associated with ECIRS. A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted from 2008 to 2024, using MESH terms and the following key words: "ECIRS" and "Endoscopic Combined Intrarenal Surgery" The search yielded 157 articles, including retrospective cohort studies, two randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and four meta-analyses comparing ECIRS with PCNL. Most important findings were summarized regarding indications, patient positioning, kidney access, tract size, surgical outcomes, and complications. ECIRS demonstrated higher stone-free rate, lower complication rate, and a reduced need for multiple procedures compared to traditional PCNL. Additionally, ECIRS has the potential to integrate new technologies to further enhance outcomes. ECIRS demonstrates significant advantages in the management of large kidney stones. Future research should focus on well-designed RCTs to provide robust evidence of its efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness, potentially establishing ECIRS as the first option treatment for complex kidney stones.

Traditional Plants Based Treatment for Kidney Stones: Insight into Herbal Drugs

The deposition of hard crystals created by mineral or salt buildup in the urine canal leads to kidney stones, a frequent urinary tract issue. Urine flow obstruction and excruciating discomfort can be caused by kidney stones. Numerous processes can lead to oxidative stress, which raises the probability of kidney stones developing. The inflammatory response that results from kidney stones forming exacerbates oxidative stress further, creating a vicious cycle. This urological condition, which affects both male and female populations, is becoming more widespread worldwide. Planning the volume of urine produced is a crucial stage in the elimination of kidney stones. Surgery such as shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) and ureteroscopy (URS) is used to treat conditions when the stone has ceased passing through and is causing excruciating discomfort. Because of their medicinal and antioxidant properties, as well as their active substances, medicinal plants have positive benefits on human health. Regrettably, end-stage renal disease is frequently the consequence of side effects brought on the traditional medications used to treat nephrolithiasis. Kidney stones can be avoided by controlling nutrition intake, medication usage, and diet. Agents that are urolithotriptic are medicinal herbs. Examining the natural plants that are utilized to treat the illness is the goal of this review. Finding natural plants that can be used to cure kidney stones was made easier by this review. Keywords: Kidney stones, Urolithiasis, diuresis, herbal drug, calcium oxalate stone

Exploring susceptibility and therapeutic targets for kidney stones through proteome-wide Mendelian randomization.

Given the high recurrence rate of kidney stones, surgical lithotripsy and stone removal are not the ultimate treatments for kidney stones. There's an urgent need to explore the genetic mechanisms behind the susceptibility to kidney stones and to identify potential targets for prevention, to reduce the renal damage caused by recurrent stone formation. In this study, we screened 4548 circulating proteins using proteome-wide Mendelian Randomization (MR) to find proteins with a causal relationship to kidney stone risk. Additionally, proteome-wide association study (PWAS) and colocalization analysis were used to validate and prioritize candidate proteins. Moreover, downstream analyses including single-cell analysis, enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI), and druggability analysis were conducted on the proteins causally related to kidney stones, to further explore the genetic mechanisms of susceptibility and the potential of proteins as drug targets. Ultimately, 22 target proteins associated with the risk of kidney stones were identified. Six plasma proteins (COLGALT1, CLMP, LECT1, ITIH1, CDHR3, CPLX2) were negatively correlated with kidney stone risk, while the genetic overexpression of 16 target proteins (GJA1, STOM, IRF9, F9, TMPRSS11D, ADH1B, SPINK13, CRYBB2, TNS2, DOCK9, OXSM, MST1, IL2, LMAN2, ITIH3, KLRF1) increased the risk of kidney stones. Based on the PWAS and colocalization analysis results, the 22 target proteins were classified into 3 tiers: IL2, CPLX2, and LMAN2 as tier 1 proteins with the most compelling evidence, MST1, ITIH1, and ITIH3 as tier 2 proteins, and the rest as tier 3 proteins. Enrichment analysis and PPI showed that target proteins mainly affect the occurrence of kidney stones through leukocyte activation and cell junction assembly. Druggability analysis suggested that IL2, MST1, and ITIH1 have potential as drug targets, and potential drugs were evaluated through molecular docking. In summary, this study employed multiple analytical methods to screen plasma proteins related to susceptibility to kidney stones, providing new insights into the genetic mechanisms of kidney stones and potential targets for treatment and prevention.

Evaluating the effectiveness of AI-powered UrologiQ's in accurately measuring kidney stone volume in urolithiasis patients.

Kidney stones and urolithiasis are kidney diseases that have a significant impact on health and well-being, and their incidence is increasing annually owing to factors such as age, sex, ethnicity, and geographical location. Accurate identification and volume measurement of kidney stones are critical for determining the appropriate surgical approach, as timely and precise treatment is essential to prevent complications and ensure successful outcomes. Larger stones often require more invasive procedures, and precise volume measurements are essential for effective surgical planning and patient outcomes. This study aimed to compare the ability of artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and measure kidney stone volume via CT-KUB images. CT KUB imaging data were analyzed to determine the effectiveness of AI in identifying the volume of kidney stones. The results were compared with measurements taken by radiologists. Compared with radiologists, the AI had greater accuracy, efficiency, and consistency in measuring kidney stone volume. The AI calculates the volume of kidney stones with an average difference of 80% compared with the volumes calculated by radiologists, highlighting a significant discrepancy that is critical for accurate surgical planning. The results suggest that artificial intelligence (AI) outperforms radiologists' manual calculations in measuring kidney stone volume. By integrating AI with kidney stone detection and treatment, there is potential for greater diagnostic precision and treatment effectiveness, which could ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Multidisciplinary Treatment on a 69 years-old Male with Kidney Stone and Chronic Kidney Disease

Introduction Obstruction by kidney stones is one of the causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Out of all CKD cases, 10.3% are associated with obstruction due to kidney stones. Treatment of kidney stones can restore kidney function, but requires holistic and intense collaboration between urologists to treat the stones, nephrologist to monitor kidney function, and nutritionists to provide proper diet to prevent kidney stone reccurence Case Presentation A 69-year old male presented to the emergency departement with flank pain since 1 week ago. The patient complained of frequent flank pain since the last year. BOF radiological examination found staghorn stones in the right kidney, and ultrasonography revealed severe hydronephrosis of the right kidney. An impaired kidney function and decreased eGFR related to CKD were also found. The urologist performed bivalve nephrolithotomy on the right kidney. Afterwards, a histopathological examination was done to determine the stone material for further collaborative management with internist and nutritionist. After consultation with nutritionists regarding nutritional needs, monitoring from internist was done to monitor comorbidities and progression of CKD. Kidney function was evaluated after collaborative management and we found improvement on kidney function. Discussion In patients with CKD caused by obstruction due to kidney stones, it is necessary to treat the kidney stones first to relieve obstruction and restore kidney function. In this case the role of the internist is to control and recover kidney function after urologists have relieved the patient from urinary obstruction. Kidney stones that have been successfully removed are subjected to histopathological examination to determine its composition. After the composition were identified, consultation with a nutritionist is carried out to determine the right diet for the patient. With the right diet, prevention of stone reoccurrence is expected. Conclusion A history of kidney stones is associated with an increased risk of CKD. Multidisciplinary collaboration between urologists, nephrologist, and nutritionists helps lower the risk of stone recurrence and minimize the need for additional operative procedures through a focus on dietary and medical approaches and improved kidney function.

Analysis of the effectiveness and safety of 7.5 Fr ultra-thin flexible ureteroscope combined with a tip-flexible suctioning ureteral access sheath for the treatment of kidney stones.

To compare the efficacy and safety of using a 7.5 Fr flexible ureteroscope (f-URS) with tip-flexible suctioning ureteral access sheath (TFS-UAS) versus a 9.2 Fr f-URS with traditional ureteral access sheath (T-UAS) in the treatment of kidney stones. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 205 patients with kidney stones measuring 1.0-2.0cm treated with 7.5 Fr and 9.2 Fr f-URS in the Urology Department of The Affiliated Dazu Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from November 2022 to November 2023. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Among them, 78 patients were selected to use the 7.5 Fr f-URS, which was designated as the GroupA. The remaining 127 patients were selected to use the 9.2 Fr f-URS, which served as the GroupB. The study compared the operation duration, lithotripsy duration, surgical success rate, immediate postoperative stone-free rate (SFR), 1-month postoperative SFR, and the incidence rate of postoperative complications between the two patient groups. In terms of demographic characteristics, the size of calculi, surgical success rate, and 1-month postoperative SFR, there was no statistically significant difference between GroupA and GroupB. However, GroupA demonstrated superior performance compared to GroupB in operation duration (48 (40.55) min vs 74 (56.94) min), lithotripsy duration (35 (27.43) min vs 59 (42.78) min), and immediate postoperative SFR (53.52% (38/71) vs 29.41% (35/119)), with statistically significant differences observed (P < 0.05). In terms of complication occurrence, GroupA reported 10 cases of minor (Grade 1) complications, whereas GroupB had 32 cases of minor (Grade 1) complications and 7 cases of severe complications (including 2 cases of Grade 3 and 5 cases of Grade 4). The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The GroupA reported significantly fewer cases of postoperative fever (4) and analgesic treatment (3) compared to GroupB, which had 18 fever cases and 19 analgesic cases (P < 0.05).The GroupA did not experience any cases of septicemia or steinstrasse. Conversely, the GroupB had 5 cases of septicemia and 3 cases of steinstrasse, including 2 patients who underwent reoperation. Both groups also reported cases of ureteral mucosal rupture (5 in GroupA, 10 in GroupB), but these differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Compared with 9.2 Fr f-URS combined with T-UAS, the use of 7.5 Fr f-URS with TFS-UAS in the treatment of kidney stones has higher lithotripsy efficiency and lower complication rate. This combination is safe and effective in the treatment of kidney stones.

Comparison of the efficacy and safety of mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy versus retrograde intrarenal surgery for the treatment of kidney stones in overweight or obese patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To discuss the differences in the effectiveness and security of kidney stones in overweight or obese patients by mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MiniPCNL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). We exhaustively searched numerous databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and CNKI, covering all records from their initiation date until September 2023. This included controlled trials focusing on the use of MiniPCNL and RIRS in the treatment of kidney stones in overweight or obese patients. The gathered data was then analyzed using the Review Manager 5.4 software. 9 studies including 1122 patients were included. Meta-analysis showed that: The MiniPCNL group had higher overall complications, grade I complications, length of hospital stay(LOS), first stone-free rate (SFR), and final SFR in obese patients, with no significant difference between the two groups in terms of operative time(OT), hemoglobin drop, and grade II complication rate. There were more overall complications, grade I complications, final SFR, and LOS with MiniPCNL in patients with stones > 2cm compared to no significant difference in grade II complications. MiniPCNL performed in the prone position had higher final SFR, less OT, hemoglobin drop, and no statistically significant difference in overall complications or LOS. Sheaths using > 14F had higher overall complication rates, final SFR, and LOS, and no statistical differences in OT and first SFR between the two modalities. In the MiniPCNL subgroup aged ≤ 50 years, there were higher first SFR, final SFR, and shorter OT, and in the MiniPCNL subgroup aged > 50 years, there were more OT, LOS, and hemoglobin drop, with no statistical difference in overall complications between the two groups. Our study showed that MiniPCNL in obese patients had higher initial SFR and final SFR, fewer procedures, but more postoperative complications, LOS, and grade I complications compared with RIRS. Similar results were seen in patients in the prone position, with stones > 2cm and age ≤ 50 years. [ https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ ], identifier PROSPERO (CRD42023467284).

Comparison of laparoscopic-assisted flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy with percutaneous nephrolithotripsy and flexible ureteroscopy lithotripsy: a case-control study and meta-analysis.

This study aims to compare the differences in stone clearance rate, infection rate, and bleeding risk among laparoscopic-assisted flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (LAFUL), percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL), and flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (FUL) through case-control studies and meta-analysis, to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of LAFUL. 1. Through systematic literature search, clinical studies related to LAFUL, PCNL, and FUL were screened, and data on stone clearance rate, infection rate, and bleeding events were collected and analyzed for three groups of patients, followed by meta-analysis. 2. Data of patients who met the single center inclusion criteria and received LAFUL (40 cases), PCNL (40 cases, FUL), and FUL (40 cases) treatments for kidney stones from January 2021 to December 2023 were collected. Using a case-control study method, relevant clinical data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 software. A total of 31 studies involving 2974 patients were included. The results of case-control analysis showed the stone clearance rate in the LAFUL group (F = 225.19, P < 0.001) and the positive rate of postoperative urine bacterial culture (X2 = 4.558, P = 0.033). The results of meta-analysis showed the stone clearance rate (rate = 0.986, 95% CI 0.964-0.999) and blood transfusion rate (rate = 0, 95% CI 0-0.012) in the LAFUL group. LAFUL shows potential in improving the stone clearance rate and reducing the risk of postoperative infection and bleeding, suggesting it may have certain advantages in the treatment of renal calculi.

Application value of surgical navigation system based on deep learning and mixed reality for guiding puncture in percutaneous nephrolithotomy: a retrospective study.

This study was conducted to investigate the clinical value of a navigation system based on deep learning and mixed reality for the treatment of kidney stones with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL), and to improve its theoretical basis for the treatment of kidney stones. The data of 136 patients with kidney stones from October 2021 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent PNL, and were categorized into a control group (Group 1) and a surgical navigation group (Group 2) according to puncture positioning method. Preoperative computed tomography (CT) was performed in both groups. In group 1, procedures were performed under standard ultrasound guidance. PNL was performed with navigation system fused with ultrasound to guide percutaneous puncture in group 2. The baseline information and procedural characteristics of both groups were compared. PNL was successfully performed in both groups. No significant difference was found in the baseline date between the two groups. In group 2, real-time ultrasound images could be accurately matched with CT images with the aid of navigation system. The success rate of single puncture, puncture time, and decrease in hemoglobin were significantly improved in group 2 compared to group 1. (p < 0.05). The application of navigation system based on deep learning and mixed reality in PNL for kidney stones allows for real-time intraoperative navigation, with acceptable accuracy and safety. Most importantly, this technique is easily mastered, particularly by novice surgeons in the field of PNL.

Bidirectional Impact of Varying Severity of Acute Kidney Injury on Calcium Oxalate Stone Formation.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a prevalent renal disorder. The occurrence of AKI may promote the formation of renal calcium oxalate stones by exerting continuous effects on renal tubular epithelial cells. We aimed to delineate the molecular interplay between AKI and nephrolithiasis. A mild (20 min) and severe (30 min) renal ischemia-reperfusion injury model was established in mice. Seven days after injury, calcium oxalate stones were induced using glyoxylate (Gly) to evaluate the impact of AKI on the formation of kidney stones. Transcriptome sequencing was performed on tubular epithelial cells (TECs) to elucidate the relationship between AKI severity and kidney stones. Key transcription factors (TF) regulating differential gene transcription levels were identified using motif analysis, and pioglitazone, ginkgetin, and fludarabine were used for targeted therapy to validate key transcription factors as potential targets for kidney stone treatment. Severe AKI led to increased deposition of calcium oxalate crystals in renal, impaired kidney function, and upregulation of kidney stone-related gene expression. In contrast, mild AKI was associated with decreased crystal deposition, preserved kidney function, and downregulation of similar gene expression. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that genes associated with inflammation and cell adhesion pathways were significantly upregulated after severe AKI, while genes related to energy metabolism pathways were significantly upregulated after mild AKI. An integrative bioinformatic analysis uncovered a TF regulatory network within TECs, pinpointing that PKNOX1 was involved in the upregulation of inflammation-related genes after severe AKI, and inhibiting PKNOX1 function with Pioglitazone could simultaneously reduce the increase of calcium oxalate crystals after severe AKI in kidney. On the other hand, motif analysis also revealed the protective role of STAT1 in the kidneys after mild AKI, enhancing the function of STAT1 with Ginkgetin could reduce kidney stone formation, while the specific inhibitor of STAT1, Fludarabine, could eliminate the therapeutic effects of mild AKI on kidney stones. Inadequate repair of tubular epithelial cells after severe AKI increases the risk of kidney stone formation, with the upregulation of inflammation-related genes regulated by PKNOX1 playing a role in this process. Inhibiting PKNOX1 function can reduce kidney stone formation. Conversely, after mild AKI, effective cell repair through upregulation of STAT1 expression can protect TEC function, reduce stone formation, and activating STAT1 function can also achieve the goal of treating kidney stones.

Selenium participates in the formation of kidney stones by alleviating endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells

ABSTRACT Objectives: To investigate the role of selenium and selenium-containing proteins in the etiology and pathogenesis of kidney stones. Methods: The HK-2 cell line was subjected to supersaturation oxalate treatment to establish an in vitro model of calcium oxalate kidney stones, while SD rats were administered with ethylene glycol to establish an in vivo model of calcium oxalate kidney stones. qPCR analysis was employed to investigate the alterations in selenoproteins within the models, and subsequently, genes exhibiting significant changes were identified. Subsequently, based on the functions of these genes, their regulatory effects on endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and apoptosis during the disease progression were examined both in HK-2 cells and rat kidneys. Finally, Selenomethionine (SeMet) supplementation was introduced to explore its therapeutic potential for kidney stone management. Results: The involvement of Selenoprotein K in the pathogenesis of calcium oxalate kidney stone disease has been confirmed, exhibiting significant alterations. Manipulation of its expression levels through overexpression and knockdown techniques resulted in a corresponding reduction or increase in oxidative stress, ERS, and apoptosis within renal tubular epithelial cells. SelK regulates ERS and apoptosis by controlling the IRE1-ASK1-JNK pathway. In addition, SeMet treatment, which contains selenium, effectively reduced the levels of oxidative stress, ERS, and apoptosis in vivo and in vitro models, thereby alleviating tubular epithelial cell damage and reducing the formation of kidney stones in experimental rats. Discussion: Selenium is involved in the occurrence and development of kidney stones by regulating oxidative damage to renal tubular epithelial cells. The results suggest that dietary selenium supplementation in daily life may be of great significance for the prevention and treatment of kidney stones.

Integrated Care in a Large Public System Improves Simple Kidney Stone Management.

In the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services-the second largest public health care system in the United States-clinical integration allows specialists and primary care providers to collaboratively provide specialty care. We used time-driven activity-based costing to compare patient burden and cost of kidney stone diagnosis, workup, and management with and without clinical integration. We interviewed and observed teams of physicians and staff to understand workflow practices and personnel, space, material, and device requirements for stone care in the 2 models. We created process maps that outline the entire arc of care and used time-driven activity-based costing to calculate the all-inclusive costs of kidney stone diagnosis, workup, and scheduling for surgical treatment. The total cost of kidney stone treatment per stone episode in the integrated pathway was $499.04, compared with $699.81 in the traditional, nonintegrated pathway, a difference of 29%. The number of steps needed to arrive at operating room scheduling was 11 with integration and 14 without it. Clinical integration resulted in more efficient and cost-effective care from patient, provider, and health system perspectives. Integrated care may improve access to specialty care and increase the value of care and reduce treatment burden on patients.

Evaluation of Optical Tracking to Distinguish Surgeon Experience During Endoscopic Stone Surgery.

Introduction and Objectives: Optical tracking (OT) has shown potential in assessing surgical skill but has yet to be evaluated for endoscopic urologic surgery. We sought to evaluate the potential for OT to distinguish expert and trainee surgeons during flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) for kidney stone treatment in both simulated and live surgical settings. Methods: We performed OT analysis of six surgeons performing stone localization during fURS in two settings. In the first setting, surgeons were tasked with fiducial localization in three separate kidney phantoms during fURS. In the second setting, surgeons performed stone localization via fURS in five separate patients. Surgeons were categorized as "expert" (n = 3, endourologist, average case volume of >100 fURS per year) or trainee (n = 3, trainee, <100 fURS per year). OT metrics were recorded for both settings using the Microsoft HoloLens 2© as the surgeons viewed the surgical monitor during fURS. Standard OT metrics of experts and trainees were compared, and included: area of eye gaze movement, gaze distance traveled, number of gaze fixation points, percentage of gaze fixation dwell time, and number of saccades. Results: In the simulated setting, the average time for stone localization was greater for trainees compared to experts (318 seconds vs 52 seconds, p < 0.01). Additionally, the mean area of eye gaze movements with area of interest (AOI) was greater for trainees compared to experts (1430 cm2 vs 1060 cm2, p < 0.01). The total gaze distance traveled was also greater for trainees compared to experts (1480 cm vs 730 cm, p < 0.01). In the live surgical setting, average time for stone localization was similar for trainees and experts (74 seconds vs 51 seconds, p = 0.05). The total area of eye gaze movements in AOI was greater for trainees compared to experts (700 cm2 vs 30 cm2, p < 0.01). Additionally, the total gaze distance traveled was greater for trainees compared to experts (14,000 cm vs 680 cm, p < 0.01). This suggests more varied and less point specific concentration on the surgical screen by trainees. There was no difference in percentage of gaze fixation dwell time and number of saccades between experts and trainees in either setting. Conclusions: OT analysis can objectively distinguish surgical experience between experts and trainee surgeons performing fURS in both simulated and live surgical settings. These findings may play a role in future surgical training and skills assessment.

Comparative analysis of retro vs. transperitoneal laparoscopic pyelolithotomy for large renal stones.

The objective of this study is to compare the outcomes and complications of retroperitoneal and transperitoneal laparoscopic pyelolithotomy (RLP and TLP, respectively) in the treatment of large kidney stones. In this retrospective cohort effort, data of all patients who underwent laparoscopic pyelolithotomy for renal pelvic stone (N = 273) in three referral urology hospitals were retrieved. Operation duration, length of hospital stay, postoperative stone-free rate, hemoglobin (Hb) and creatinine (Cr) changes and complications were compared between the two groups before and after propensity score matching. A total of 199 TLP and 74 RLP cases were examined. Stone size was significantly higher in the TLP vs. RLP group (29.8 ± 10.9 vs. 26.5 ± 8.8mm; P = .022). Length of operation and hospital stay were comparable (P = .672 and P = .396, respectively). Rate of conversion to open surgery, postoperative blood transfusion rate, postoperative urinary leakage, postoperative stone-free rate, Hb drop and Cr change were similar between the two groups (P = .348, 0.190, 0.828, 0.411, 0.780 and 0.134, respectively). Postoperative fever was significantly more prevalent in TLP compared to RLP (21.6% vs. 0.0%, respectively; P < .001). Propensity score matched analyses showed similar results in all aspects; particularly demonstrating higher postoperative fever in TLP compared to RLP (18.9% vs. 0.0%, respectively; P < .001). RLP can be considered as an alternative to TLP; especially owing to a lower chance of postoperative fever.

Evaluating the role of urine chemistry in shock wave lithotripsy outcomes.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a commonly used method for the noninvasive treatment of kidney stones. However, achieving optimal treatment outcomes and minimizing potential damage to the kidney necessitates careful consideration for the total amount of energy utilized. This study aims to investigate whether urine pH and urine specific gravity have an impact on the total amount of energy applied during SWL. Between January 2023 and December 2023, 129 patients with renal stones underwent SWL in our department using the Storz Medical Modulith Inline lithotripter. Stone-free rates, complications, and the impact of patient, urine, and stone characteristics on energy use were analyzed. Urine samples were analyzed for pH and specific gravity. Stone characteristics, including size, HU, and skin-to-stone distance, were recorded. The obtained data were evaluated regarding the possible relationship between the total energy amount (determined as a risk factor) and the age, BMI, urine pH, urine specific gravity, stone size, HU, and skin-to-stone distance by using the Pearson correlation coefficient. p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Evaluation of our findings revealed a negative linear relationship between total amount of energy used and the urine pH, indicating a decrease in the total energy amount as urine pH shifts towards alkaline values (p = 0.038; p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant relationship was observed between age, BMI, urine specific gravity, stone size, HU, and skin-to-stone distance and the total energy amount. Our findings demonstrated a significant relationship between urine pH and the total amount of energy applied during SWL sessions, suggesting the need for further prospective research to better understand the possible association between these two parameters. Such investigations could contribute to the development of more reasonable and effective strategies for kidney stone treatment in an attempt to minimize the potential kidney damage.

Identifying effects of volatile organic compounds exposure on kidney stone prevalence in U.S. adults: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 2007-2020.

Our aim was to comprehensively investigate the relationship between blood volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and kidney stone prevalence for U.S. adults. In this cross-sectional study, 10,052 participants from the 2007-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included. Multivariate logistic regression model was employed to investigate the association between 9 blood VOCs and kidney stones. We explored the dose-response relationship between blood VOCs and kidney stones using restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis. Additionally, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression model was performed to assess the overall association of 9 blood VOCs with kidney stones. Finally, subgroup analyses were conducted to identify the findings in different populations at high prevalence. Logistic regression analysis and dose-response risk curves revealed that blood benzene (aOR = 1.308, 95% CI: 1.118-1.530, P = 0.001), blood ethylbenzene (aOR = 1.280, 95% CI: 1.054-1.554, P = 0.013), blood m-/p-xylene (aOR = 1.187, 95% CI: 1.008-1.398, P = 0.040), blood 2,5-dimethylfuran (aOR = 1.319, 95% CI: 1.135-1.533, P < 0.001) and blood furan (aOR = 1.698, 95% CI: 1.305-2.209, P < 0.001) were positively associated with the prevalence of kidney stones. WQS regression analysis revealed that exposure to mixed blood VOCs was positively correlated with kidney stone prevalence (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.14-1.57), with furans carrying the greatest weight. Subgroup analyses suggested that kidney stones were more susceptible to the effects of blood VOCs in young and middle-aged, female, overweight and obese, non-hypertensive, and non-diabetic populations. In this study, the results indicated that high VOC exposure was positively and independently associated with kidney stones in U.S. adults. This finding highlighted the need for public health strategies to reduce VOC exposure and its role in kidney stone prevention and treatment.

Analysis of postoperative infection factors of retrograde intrarenal surgery combined with negative pressure equipment for renal stones

Our study aimed to retrospectively analyze the patients who underwent the combination of negative pressure equipment and RIRS(NP-RIRS) for renal stones, and identified new high-risk factors related to infection. 456 patients with renal stones ≤ 3 cm underwent NP-RIRS in our department, from January 2022 to October 2023. All patients were divided into non-infection group(NIRIRS group) and infection group(IRIRS group) based on infection complications during the perioperative period. Establish a receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC curve)based on variables with statistical differences, and use the Jordan index to find the optimal cutoff value. Classify the data into two categories based on the best truncation value, and perform binary logistic regression analysis on the classified data. In the IRIRS group, there were 10 cases of fever (2.92%), 2 cases of sepsis (0.58%), and no cases of septic shock or death. The length and the CT value of the stone were 16 (13,21) vs. 22 (19,24) (p < 0.001), 764 (570,1012) vs. 1372 (841,1527) (p < 0.001), respectively, and there was a statistical difference. The surgical time of NIRIRS group and IRIRS group were 57 (50,65) vs. 75 (60,98), respectively (p < 0.001), with statistical differences. On the contrary, the stone-free rate(SFR) at 3 months after surgery was 97.60% vs. 91.70% (p = 0.209), and there was no difference. The length of stones, surgical time, and CT values of stones between the two groups were further used to establish ROC, with ROC areas of 0.791, 0.791, and 0.816, respectively(Fig. 2). Based on the Jordan index, the optimal cutoff values were 17.5 mm (stone size), 64.5 min (surgery time), and 732.5 HU (stone CT value), respectively. Three continuous variables were transformed into binary data using the best truncation criterion, and the classified results were subjected to binary logistic regression analysis. The results showed that the three variables remained independent risk factors for postoperative infection complications. The incidence of infection after NPRIRS was lower than TRIRS for kidney stones. Length of stones, surgical time, and CT value of stones were independent risk factors for postoperative infection in NPRIRS treatment of kidney stones. Due to the small sample size, the credibility and generalizability of the conclusions were limited.

Kukoamine A alleviates nephrolithiasis by inhibiting endogenous oxalate synthesis via the IL-6/JAK/STAT3/DAO signaling pathway

BackgroundThe recurrent nature and socioeconomic burden of nephrolithiasis demand effective treatments. Delineating the crosstalk between inflammatory processes and the endogenous oxalate metabolism pathway, which underpins nephrolithiasis pathogenesis, is essential for advancing treatment strategies. PurposeWe aim to screen therapeutic Chinese herbal remedies and their bioactive constituents for kidney stone treatment using a fruit fly model, followed by efficacy and mechanism validation in a rodent nephrolithiasis model as well as in vitro human cell culture model. Study design and methodsWe developed a fruit fly model to screen for efficient traditional Chinese medicine herbs and their active compounds for kidney stone treatment. Candidate active compounds from efficient herbs were separated and identified by solid-phase chromatography coupled with LC-MS analysis. Fruit fly genetic tools were employed to manipulate the expression of related genes to explore the therapeutic mechanisms of the Lycii Cortex and kukoamine A (KuA). To confirm the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of KuA for mammalian nephrolithiasis, mouse model of glyoxylate-induced kidney stone and human renal tubular cells were used. The therapeutic role of kukoamine A in nephrolithiasis was evaluated by assessing tubular injury, crystal deposition, and adhesion. The level of expression and phosphorylation in cells and mice was assessed using RT-qPCR and western blot. ResultsOur findings indicate that Lycii Cortex potently inhibits calcium oxalate stone formation via activation of the JNK/Upd3/JAK/STAT signaling cascade, resulting in diminished endogenous oxalate synthesis by downregulating D-amino acid oxidase (DAO) gene expression, predominantly in fruit fly Malpighian tube stellate cells. KuA was identified as the principal bioactive constituent mediating these effects. Both mouse models and human cell assays confirmed KuA's efficacy in preventing calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis in mammals, through hepatic JAK/STAT3 pathway activation and upregulation of IL-6, culminating in reduced urinary crystal deposition. ConclusionOur research underscores the potential of kukoamine A as a lead compound in treating nephrolithiasis and reveals the interplay between the IL-6/JAK/STAT3 inflammatory pathway and endogenous oxalate metabolism in nephrolithiasis pathogenesis. Additionally, it highlights the utility of the fruit fly model as a powerful tool for deciphering the therapeutic mechanisms of traditional Chinese herbs.

Book Review: No More Kidney Stones

The book "No more kidney stones" is a significant work for understanding the complex world of kidney stone disease. It provides comprehensive information from the formation of kidney stones to treatment options, offering essential guidance for both patients and healthcare professionals. The book emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach by detailing modern medications and surgical interventions, as well as the roles of various medical specialties in the treatment of kidney stones. The authors aim to raise awareness and develop more effective methods in the treatment of kidney stone disease. The sections cover the formation, symptoms, and treatment methods of kidney stones, diet and lifestyle changes, risk factors, modern medical interventions, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. The book presents a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for kidney stone disease. It offers scientifically based guidance, emphasizing the complexity of the disease and the need for a multidisciplinary approach to its management. The importance of customized diagnostic and treatment approaches according to patients' individual characteristics is detailed in each section. The book serves as a valuable reference for anyone seeking information on kidney stone disease, providing practical information for clinical practice. This work enhances nephrologists' professional competence by offering extensive and in-depth knowledge, allowing them to develop a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of kidney stone disease.

Box-Behnken Design for Nephrolithiasis: Developing Folic AcidChitosan Nanoparticles from Musa acuminata Stem Water.

Nephrolithiasis, or kidney stones, is a widespread condition causing significant discomfort and health issues. This analysis delves into the development of folic acid-chitosan nanoparticles (FA-CNPs) using Musa acuminata stem water to address nephrolithiasis. A Box-Behnken design was used to refine synthesis variables—chitosan concentration, folic acid loading, and reaction time. The study systematically analyzed their effects on nanoparticle size, encapsulation efficiency, and release profile. The optimized FA-CNPs demonstrated potential for improved targeted treatment of kidney stones, highlighting advancements in nanomedicine for effective nephrolithiasis management.