Impact of pre-stenting and bladder dranaige on intrapelvic pressure during retrograde intrarenal surgery

Purpose

This study aims to assess the effect of pre-stenting and bladder drainage on intrapelvic pressure (IP) during Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS).

Methods

Eighty-five consecutive patients were prospectively enrolled and meticulously recorded in a data form. Forty-two patients meeting the inclusion criteria after applying exclusion factors. The patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (21 patients with preoperative JJ stents) and Group 2 (21 patients without preoperative JJ stents). IP was measured during RIRS, and the impact of various factors, including pre-stenting, bladder drainage and hydronephrosis (HN) grade, on IP was analysed through univariate and multiple linear regression.

Results

The perioperative mean highest IP (78 ± 18.2 mmHg vs. 110 ± 23.9 mmHg), median lowest IP (29 mmHg vs. 42 mmHg) and median overall IP (41 mmHg vs. 69 mmHg) were significantly lower in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (all p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that pre-stenting and mild HN (Grade 0–1) were independent predictors of reduced IP.

Conclusion

Pre-stenting led to a significant reduction in IP during RIRS, likely due to passive ureteral dilation. Additionally, bladder drainage with urethral catheter further decreased IP. These findings suggest that pre-stenting and bladder drainage should be considered as strategies to reduce IP during RIRS, potentially improving surgical outcomes.