Stone Clearance Rate and Factors Associated with Retreatment in Patients Undergoing Ureteroscopy Lithotripsy

Ureteroscopic lithotripsy is a common method for treating urinary tract stones. Stone clearance rate and postoperative retreatment incidence are influenced by various factors. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving treatment outcomes and reducing the need for postoperative retreatment.

This retrospective study analysed patients who underwent ureteroscopic lithotripsy at Ankang Gaoxin Hospital between January 2022 and September 2024. All patients received detailed imaging examinations before surgery and were regularly followed up for one month to evaluate stone clearance. Patient demographics, stone size, location and type, and procedural details were collected. Factors related to stone clearance and postoperative retreatment were analysed by using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression.

The stone clearance rate after ureteroscopic lithotripsy was 91.53%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that stones larger than 10 mm in diameter (odds ratio (OR) = 4.474, p = 0.029) and high stone density (OR = 1.004, p = 0.006) were independent risk factors for stone retention. The incidence of postoperative retreatment was 6.88%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that bilateral stones (OR = 6.531, p = 0.013) and high stone density (OR = 1.004, p = 0.010) were independent risk factors for retreatment.

Ureteroscopic lithotripsy demonstrates a high stone clearance rate. However, stone size and density are important factors affecting clearance. The incidence of postoperative retreatment is closely related to stone location and density. Tailoring treatment in accordance with these factors can further enhance outcomes and reduce the need for retreatment.