Use of conventional DJ stent and single loop stent with string after ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy: Can we use? Can it be effective?

CONTEXT: Use of conventional double j stent with string and single loop stent with string after ureterorenoscopy.

AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the use of both types of stents using the Ureteral Symptom Score Questionnaire (USSQ) and assess proximal migration.

SETTINGS AND

DESIGN

This was a single institute study.

SUBJECTS AND

METHODS

A total of 96 female patients with unilateral ureteric stones were enrolled. Patients underwent ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy, conventional double J (DJ) stent with string and single loop stent with string was placed. Before stent removal at 7-10 days, they were evaluated with X-ray kidney ureter bladder for proximal migration and USSQ for stent-related complaints.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Data were analyzed using Chi-square and Student's t-test.

RESULTS

In our study, Group A (DJ loop with string) had 51 patients and Group B (single J loop with string) had 47 patients. The mean stone size in group A was 10.06 mm and Group B was 9.7 mm. Both groups had one case each of early stent expulsion and none had proximal migration of the stent. Group A had two cases of urinary tract infection and Group B had one case which resolved on antibiotics. Evaluating the USSQ questionnaire in both groups, urinary symptoms such as urgency (P = 0.03), dysuria (P = 0.02), interference with life (P = 0.01), and quality impact overall (P = 0.016) were statistically significant. Evaluating pain, sleep disturbance (P = 0.04), pain at voiding (P = 0.03), and flank pain during voiding (P = 0.018) was statistically significant. In general health, difficulty with heavyweight physical activity (P = 0.02), feeling calm (P = 0.16), social life enjoyment (P = 0.26), and need for extra help (P = 0.008) was significant. In sexual matters, 13 (28%) patients in Group B had no active sex (conscious) and 6 (12%) patients had stopped intercourse due to stent-related symptoms, whereas in Group A, it was 10 (20%) and 2 (4%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a single J stent with string is an effective method, has lesser complication, and is easier to remove.