Impact of Ureteral Access Sheath Use on Renal Stone Clearance During Flexible Ureterorenoscopy: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background and Aims: Urinary tract stones (kidney and ureter) are a common medical condition. Recently, advancements in minimally invasive endoscopic procedures have significantly transformed the surgical management of urolithiasis. Methods: The study enrolled 123 patients with kidney stones who underwent FURS with laser lithotripsy in the period between January 2021 and January 2023. The patients were divided into two groups, first one includes patients who underwent FURS with UAS and the second group include those who underwent FURS without UAS. The patients who underwent FURS with UAS and without UAS were compared based on operative time, complications, and stone-free rate. The patients underwent CT scan of the urinary tract after two to 4 weeks. Results: A total of 123 patients who underwent FURS with laser lithotripsy between January 2021 and January 2023 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Among them, 58 patients (47%) underwent FURS with UAS, while 65 patients (53%) underwent FURS without UAS. The use of UAS is associated with a significant reduction in operative time and a higher stone-free rate compared to patients who underwent FURS without UAS. The complications were comparable between patients who underwent FURS with UAS and without UAS. Conclusion: The use of UAS is associated with a significant reduction in operative time and a higher stone-free rate compared to patients who underwent FURS without UAS.