Ureterolithotripsy in a paediatric population: a single institution's experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Urology
• Endourology

Background:

• Urolithiasis incidence is rising in children, posing treatment challenges.
• Pediatric ureteral stones can obstruct urinary flow.
• Choosing optimal treatment for pediatric stones requires careful consideration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of ureterolithotripsy (URSL) in a pediatric population.
• To assess the success rates and complications associated with URSL for ureteral stones in children.
• To highlight the technical considerations for URSL in young children.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 157 ureterolithotripsy (URSL) procedures performed between 2006 and 2013.
• Utilized pneumatic, laser (Ho:YAG), and ultrasonic lithotripters with rigid and flexible ureteroscopes.
• Patient cohort included 126 children (aged 10 months-17 years, body mass >8 kg).

Main Results:

• An 85.3% success rate was achieved during the first URSL session.
• A final stone-free rate of 98.1% was obtained for ureteral stones.
• Complications occurred in 1.9% of cases, with 6.37% requiring pigtail catheter placement.

Conclusions:

• Ureterolithotripsy (URSL) is a highly effective endoscopic treatment for pediatric ureteral stones.
• The procedure demonstrates a high stone-free rate and acceptable complication profile.
• URSL in children under 5 years demands specialized expertise due to anatomical considerations.