Micro-Ureteroscopy as a Treatment of Renal Pelvis Lithiasis in Young Children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Nephrolithiasis Treatment

Background:

• Advancements in endoscopic instruments enable effective kidney stone treatment in pediatric patients.
• Microureteroscopy offers a potential solution for treating renal stones in young children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of microureteroscopy using a 4.85F sheath for treating renal stones in children.
• To assess the usefulness of this technique in infants and young children.

Main Methods:

• Four pediatric patients (3 younger than 3 years) with renal pelvic stones underwent microureteroscopy with a 4.85F sheath.
• Ho:YAG Laser lithotripsy with a 200-μm fiber was used for stone fragmentation.
• Procedures were performed without a safety guide or meatal dilation in most cases.

Main Results:

• Mean operative time was 100 ± 16 minutes with no intraoperative complications.
• Complete stone pulverization was achieved in all cases, except for residual 5 mm stone in one case of coraliform lithiasis.
• All patients were discharged within 24 hours post-intervention.

Conclusions:

• Microureteroscopy with a 4.85F sheath is a viable alternative for selected pediatric renal pelvic stones.
• The technique demonstrates safety and efficacy in infants and young children.
• Further studies may confirm its role in pediatric urolithiasis management.