Validation of the Greek Version of the Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ): A prospective clinical Study.

Abstract

Background: The Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ) is the gold standard for evaluating stent-related symptoms. While validated in multiple languages, no validated Greek version currently exists.

Objective: To perform a cross-cultural adaptation, and psychometric evaluation of the Greek USSQ.

Methods: The USSQ was translated and culturally adapted following established forward-backward translation methodology. A cohort of 100 patients with temporary ureteral stents was prospectively enrolled and completed the Greek USSQ at predefined time points. Psychometric evaluation included internal consistency, test-retest reliability, construct validity, convergent validity, and responsiveness after stent removal. Comparative correlation was performed using International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Modules (ICIQ-FLUTS), and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaires.

Results: Internal consistency was good for urinary symptoms (α = 0.82), pain (α = 0.79), work performance (α = 0.77), and general health (α = 0.74), while sexual matters demonstrated moderate consistency (α = 0.68). Test-retest reliability was strong with ICC values ranging from 0.72 to 0.86. Significant correlations were found with IPSS (ρ = 0.68, p < 0.001), ICIQ-FLUTS (ρ = 0.52, p < 0.01), and SF-36 domains (ρ = -0.55 to -0.62, p < 0.001). All domains showed statistically significant improvement following stent removal (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The Greek version of the USSQ demonstrates strong reliability, validity, and responsiveness, confirming its suitability for clinical and research use in evaluating ureteral stent-related symptoms in Greek-speaking populations.