The visual endourological removal of ureteric calculi

A prospective study was carried out of new techniques that allow the endoscopic removal of all ureteric calculi. Over 19 months, 50 consecutive patients with ureteric calculi that required surgical intervention were treated initially by 53 visual endourological procedures. This was successful for 45 (90%) patients, which included all patients with calculi in the upper and lower thirds of the ureter. Five patients with mid-ureteric calculi required open ureterolithotomy. The mean stone size was 8.8 mm (range, 5-22 mm). For patients with calculi in the upper third of the ureter, the most effective procedures were retrograde manipulation of calculi which was followed by percutaneous nephrolithotomy and antegrade ureteroscopy, with extraction or ultrasonic lithotripsy. For patients with calculi in the lower third of the ureter, retrograde ureteroscopy with extraction or lithotripsy was successful in all cases. Midureteric calculi presented the greatest problem and may require open ureterolithotomy. Means of improving the success of endoscopic procedures for these stones are discussed. Complications occurred in eight (16%) patients, but were resolved with conservative measures. The mean postoperative length of stay in hospital after a successful endourological procedure was 4.5 days (range, 1-21 days). We conclude that visual endourological techniques are safe and effective, and offer the advantages of the avoidance of open surgery, a reduced hospital stay and a shortened convalescence time.