Ureteral catheterization in uncomplicated ureterolithotripsy: a randomized, controlled trial

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate short-term ureteral catheterization in patients undergoing ureteroscopic lithotripsy for ureteral calculi.

Methods: Patients (n = 140) with ureteral calculi who were candidates for ureterolithotripsy were enrolled. Stone size was 5-10mm. The operation was performed with an 8-9.8F semirigid ureteroscope without active dilatation and stones were fragmented with a 1F pneumatic lithotrite. Uncomplicated cases (109 patients) were randomized to catheterized (C) and noncatheterized (NC) groups. In the 54 C group patients, a polyurethane catheter (5F) was passed through the ureter after lithotripsy with the end attached to a Foley placed in urethra, which was removed after 24h. Postoperatively, all patients were evaluated for flank and suprapubic pain, renal colic, irritative urinary symptoms, peritonism, frequency of analgesic usage, urinary tract infection, duration of hospitalization, postdischarge visits (due to renal colic/pain), readmission, and residual stone rates.

Results: On the first postoperative day, the percentage of patients experiencing flank pain and renal colic was significantly higher in the NC group (76% and 45%) compared with the C group (20% and 2%); 67% of NC patients required analgesic administration during hospital stay versus 20% of C patients (p<0.001). Suprapubic pain and urethral irritation were reported by 13% and 37% of C patients, respectively, and 5% and 4% of NC patients. However, peritonism was developed more often in NC patients (27% vs. 13%). Hospital stay was 1 d for all patients. Three days postoperatively, 40% of NC patients complained of at least one episode of flank pain compared with 7% of C patients (p<0.001). Incidence of urinary tract infections was 4% in NC and 7% in C group patients. Postdischarge visits were necessary in 20% of NC patients and 5% of C patients. No patient in either group required readmission. No complaints were reported nor residual stones discovered on 2-wk follow-up radiographs in either group.

Conclusions: Short-term ureteral catheterization in uncomplicated ureteroscopy and lithotripsy has a role in reducing early postoperative morbidities. It may also decrease pain and colic after discharge.