Fluoroscopy Is Essential in Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) is a common procedure for kidney stones.
• Fluoroscopy is often used during RIRS, raising concerns about radiation exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if fluoroscopy is essential during RIRS for kidney stones.
• To compare outcomes between RIRS with and without fluoroscopy.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 612 patients undergoing RIRS for kidney stones.
• Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (with fluoroscopy, n=504) and Group 2 (without fluoroscopy, n=108).
• Comparison of stone characteristics, success rates, complication rates, and hospital stay.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were found between the groups regarding stone side, size, localization, or number.
• Stone-free rates and complication rates were similar in both groups.
• Hospital stay duration was also comparable between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Fluoroscopy is unnecessary in RIRS procedures for kidney stones, particularly nonopaque ones.
• Eliminating fluoroscopy reduces patient radiation exposure without compromising surgical outcomes.
• Advancements in surgical technology may further reduce reliance on fluoroscopy in RIRS.