Impact of preoperative stenting in management of bilateral ureteral stones

This study aims to evaluate the impact of preoperative stenting on surgical outcomes and complications in patients with bilateral ureteric stones, specifically assessing its role in reducing the need for subsequent interventions.

A retrospective analysis was conducted at a tertiary center over eight years, involving 82 patients with bilateral ureteric stones. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (no preoperative stenting) and Group 2 (preoperative stenting). Key data collected included demographics, preoperative stone sizes, preoperative serum creatinine levels, operative details, postoperative complications, and stone-free rates (SFR) at two weeks post-surgery. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 25.0.

Of the 54 patients analyzed (27 in each group), the mean age was 48.8 ± 12.7 for Group 1 and 52.3 ± 15.2 for Group 2. Group 2 exhibited significantly higher preoperative serum creatinine levels (p = 0.016). Secondary interventions were needed for 8 patients in Group 1 versus 3 in Group 2 (p = 0.042). The SFR was 67% in Group 1 and 78% in Group 2 (p = 0.361), indicating no statistically significant difference.

Preoperative stenting may enhance the success of surgical interventions for bilateral ureteric stones, potentially reducing the need for further procedures. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and optimize management strategies.