Purpose
We assess the efficacy and safety of se
mirigid ureteroscopy for treat
ment of ureteral stones in children.
Materials and methods
The records of 18 non-consecutive children with symptomatic ureteral stones treated with ureteroscopy in 2008-2010 were reviewed. Mean age was 7.6 years (range 15 months-14 years). A semirigid (8F) ureteroscope was used in all cases. A 0.038-inch floppy-tipped guidewire was passed through the selected ureteric orifice, advanced under direct vision, and monitored fluoroscopically. Dilatation of the ureteral orifice was necessary in 7?cases. Either direct extraction or disintegration using a pneumatic lithotripter was performed. The follow-up period was 6 months.
Results
Ureteroscopic procedures were successfully completed in 16 children (89 % ). Stones were located at the middle ureter in 3 (19 % ) cases and various levels of the lower third ureter in 13 (81 % ) cases. Stone size was 4-10?mm (mean 7?mm). Stones were fragmented with pneumatic lithotripsy in 9 (56 % ) cases and removed by forceps without fragmentation in 7 (44 % ). Stent was left in place for 3 days to 3 weeks in 12 (75 % ) cases. Early postoperative complications were insignificant hematuria in 2 patients and renal colic and fever in 3 patients. No complications were observed during the period of follow up.
Conclusion
Ureteroscopy is a feasible treatment option for ureteral stones in children, when in skilled hands and with the aid of experience gained in the adult population.
