Omitting catheterization after ureteroscopic lithotripsy: a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial

To determine whether omitting routine indwelling catheterization after ureteroscopic lithotripsy reduces postoperative lower urinary tract symptoms and enhances patient comfort, without compromising safety.

In this prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial, 180 patients undergoing ureteroscopic lithotripsy from August 2024 to June 2025 at four centers were allocated to either the No-Catheter group (n = 91) or the Catheter group (n = 89). The primary outcome was the incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) evaluated by the Patient Perception of Intensity of Urgency Scale and the Visual Analog Scale for pain at 1 h, 4 h, 1 day postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included complications (fever and urinary retention) and distressing memories assessed at a 1-month follow-up using the Subjective Units of Distress Scale.

The No-Catheter group had significantly lower LUTS incidence at day 1 (9.9% vs. 24.7%, p = 0.012) and reduced urgency at 1 h and 4 h (p < 0.05). Fewer No-Catheter patients reported distressing LUTS memories at 1 month (7.7% vs. 25.8%, p < 0.001). Complication rates were comparable between groups (p > 0.05).

Omitting routine indwelling catheterization after ureteroscopic lithotripsy appears to be a safe strategy that significantly reduces postoperative lower urinary tract symptoms and improves the patient experience. These findings support a change in clinical practice away from routine catheterization.