Publication:

A study on ureteric calculi in a rural tertiary care centre

Background Urolithiasis is one of the most common afflictions of genito-urinary tract affecting almost 5-15% of the world population. Nearly 50% of patients affected will have recurrence within 5 years, making it a lifetime disease. This study was undertaken to know the clinical epidemiology and to evaluate different management modalities with immediate postoperative outcomes of ureteric calculi.

Methods This was a descriptive prospective observational study done at PES Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam for a period of 2 years. A set of inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined and followed. Initial assessment, basic investigations with specific investigations for ureteric calculi confirmation were done. Relevant operative procedure was done and patients were managed post operatively.

Results The most common age group affected was between 31-50 years with male predominance in our study. Pain abdomen was the presenting complaints seen in all the patients. Lower 1/3rd of ureter was the commonly involved site. URSL (ureteroscopic lithotripsy) was the choice of treatment for ureteric and vesico-ureteric junction calculi and PCNL/PBPCNL (percutaneous nephrolithostomy/push back percutaneous nephrolithostomy) was the treatment of choice for calculi at pelvi-ureteric junction and upper 1/3rd of ureter with size >1 cm. The success rate of the surgical procedures done in our study was 80-100%.

Conclusions Increasing prevalence of calculi in younger age group and in female population may be due to westernization, modern lifestyle and change in dietary habits. Having the knowledge of newer techniques will help surgeons to individualise the treatment which will improve success rate and reduce morbidity.