The Role of Ureteral Stenting Following Uncomplicated Ureteroscopy for Ureteral and Renal Stones: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

The Role of Ureteral Stenting Following Uncomplicated Ureteroscopy for Ureteral and Renal Stones: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

It is well established that uncomplicated distal ureteroscopy can be safely performed without leaving a ureteral stent. However, many urologists continue to leave ureteral stents following uncomplicated ureteroscopy, regardless of stone location, due to concerns for post-operative complications, patient symptoms and to reduce unplanned medical visits. There is a paucity of data regarding the utility of stent placement for proximal ureteral or renal stones following ureteroscopy. We have designed a prospective, randomized controlled trial to evaluate the role of ureteral stent placement following ureteroscopy and pyeloscopy in proximal and renal stones.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients age ranges 18-89 with solitary or multiple proximal ureteral or renal stones 1.5cm or smaller measured in the longest dimension on preoperative imaging (CT or xray). Proximal ureteral stones are those proximal to the pelvic brim in the ureter.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Stone size greater than 1.5 cm on preoperative imaging
• Pregnancy
• Stent placement prior to ureteroscopy ("pre-stented patients")
• Patients with solitary kidney