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Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy is best for larger infundibulopelvic angles, while transcutaneous nephrolithotripsy is effective for lower renal calyx calculi regardless of anatomical variations.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Nephrology
  • Medical Technology

Background:

  • Lower renal calyx (LRC) calculi pose treatment challenges.
  • Anatomical variations, such as infundibulopelvic angle (IPA), may influence treatment efficacy.
  • Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing stone removal.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the outcomes of treating lower renal calyx calculi in 276 patients.
  • To determine the influence of anatomical parameters on the effectiveness of different lithotripsy methods.
  • To provide evidence-based recommendations for selecting the optimal treatment modality.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 276 patients with lower renal calyx calculi.
  • Classification of patients based on infundibulopelvic angle (IPA): blunt (n=118) and acute (n=158).
  • Determination of 8 anatomical parameters of the LRC and assessment of treatment outcomes for extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) and transcutaneous nephrolithotripsy (TCNL).

Main Results:

  • Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) demonstrated higher stone elimination rates with larger infundibulopelvic angles (IPA), smaller infundibulo-lumbar angles, and shorter LRC neck lengths.
  • Transcutaneous nephrolithotripsy (TCNL) proved effective irrespective of calculi dimensions, LRC neck length, IPA, or infundibulo-lumbar angle.
  • Patient stratification based on anatomical parameters can guide treatment selection.

Conclusions:

  • The choice between ESWL and TCNL for lower renal calyx calculi should consider specific anatomical parameters.
  • ESWL is recommended for cases with wider infundibulopelvic angles and specific LRC neck characteristics.
  • TCNL offers a versatile and effective treatment option for lower renal calyx calculi across various anatomical presentations.

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