Transperitoneal Laparoscopic Ureterotomy: A Mini-Invasive Option for Ureteral Stones

Abstract

Background and Objective: Laparoscopy can be an alternative modality in the management of ureteral stones. We herein present our experience with laparoscopic ureterolithotomy although most ureteral stones are managed using endourologic techniques, open surgery, or shockwave lithotripsy. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was performed from January 2014 to December 2019 on 20 patients with ureteral stones who were treated using transperitoneal laparoscopic access. We collected data on patients’ ages, genders, clinical profiles, relevant medical history, sizes of the calculi, localisation of the calculi as confirmed by imaging, and outcome of lithotripsy. Continu ous data were presented as mean values and standard deviations (for normally distributed data) and medians with interquartile ranges (for skewed data). Categorical data were presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: We included 20 patients (13 males and 7 females) with a mean age of 40.40 ± 13.25 years. The mean stone size was 18.5 ± 3.05 mm and all procedures were completed laparoscopically. The mean operative time was 96 ± 22.34 minute s. The mean estimated blood loss was less than 150 ml, and none of the patients received a blood transfusion. There was no intraoperative complication or postoperative complications, except for leakage of urine in the suture area. The mean hospital stay was 2.05 ± 0.69 days and the double J stent was removed after an average of 20 days post-operatively. The stone-free rate was 100% and after a mean follow-up period of 3 months, there was no stone recurrence. Conclusion: Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy is an effective and safe technique in the management of ureteric stones. The benefits of this technique include minimal postoperative morbidity, short postoperative hospitalization, a short convalescence period, and remarkable cosmetic results.