Risk Factors for Increased Stent-associated Symptoms Following Ureteroscopy for Urinary Stones: Results From STENTS

Recent development and future application of biodegradable ureteral stents

Ureteral stenting is a common clinical procedure for the treatment of upper urinary tract disorders, including conditions such as urinary tract infections, tumors, stones, and inflammation. Maintaining normal renal function by preventing and treating ureteral obstruction is the primary goal of this procedure. However, the use of ureteral stents is associated with adverse effects, including surface crusting, bacterial adhesion, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) after implantation. Recognizing the need to reduce the complications associated with permanent ureteral stent placement, there is a growing interest among both physicians and patients in the use of biodegradable ureteral stents (BUS). The evolution of stent materials and the exploration of different stent coatings have given these devices different roles tailored to different clinical needs, including anticolithic, antibacterial, antitumor, antinociceptive, and others. This review examines recent advances in BUS within the last 5 years, providing an in-depth analysis of their characteristics and performance. In addition, we present prospective insights into the future applications of BUS in clinical settings.

Postoperative Recovery of Quality-of-Life Following Ureteroscopy for Nephrolithiasis: The Impact on Pain Intensity and Interference and the Ability to Participate in Social Roles

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively capture patient-reported outcomes to assess the recovery profile of ureteroscopy (URS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adults undergoing URS for renal/ureteral stones were eligible for inclusion (11/2020-8/2022). Patients prospectively completed PROMIS - Pain Intensity, - Pain Interference, and - Ability to participate in social roles and activities in-person preoperatively (POD 0) and via email on POD 1, 7, 14, and 30. Scores are reported as T-scores (normalized to U.S. population, mean=50) with a change of 5 (0.5 SD) considered clinically significant.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy-eight participants enrolled at POD 0 (POD 1 =87, POD 7 =83, POD 14 =70, POD30 =67). There was a worsening of quality of life from day 0 to day 1 and day 0 to 7. All dimensions then improved with an increase in scores from day 0 to day 14 and day 0 to day 30. On multivariable analysis, the presence of a preoperative ureteral stent (OR 0.14) and use of semirigid URS (OR 0.33) were associated with a reduced odds for severe pain interference at day 1. The use of semirigid URS (OR 0.20) was associated with a reduced odds for severe worsening in the ability to participate in social roles at day 1.

CONCLUSION

Ability to participate in social roles declines immediately postoperatively, while pain intensity and interference sharply increase. There is a gradual improvement until POD 30. Findings suggest preoperative stents may influence postoperative recovery. Results offer meaningful insight to assist in counseling and setting expectation for patients postoperatively.

Contribution of Hypersensitivity to Postureteroscopy Ureteral Stent Pain: Findings From Study to Enhance Understanding of Stent-associated Symptoms

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationships between preoperative hypersensitivity to pain and central sensitization, and postoperative ureteral stent pain after ureteroscopy (URS) for urinary stones.

METHODS

Adults enrolled in the STudy to Enhance uNderstanding of sTent-associated Symptoms (STENTS) underwent quantitative sensory testing (QST) prior to URS and stent placement. Hypersensitivity to mechanical pain was assessed using a pressure algometer. Participants rated their pain intensity to pressure applied to the ipsilateral flank area and lower abdominal quadrant on the side of planned stent placement, and the contralateral forearm (control). Pressure pain thresholds were also assessed. Central sensitization was assessed by applying a pointed stimulator (pinprick) and calculating the temporal summation. Postoperative stent pain intensity and interference were assessed using PROMIS questionnaires. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures mixed-effects linear models.

RESULTS

Among the 412 participants, the median age was 54.0years, and 46% were female. Higher preoperative pain ratings to 2 kg and 4 kg mechanical pressure to the ipsilateral flank and abdominal areas were associated with higher postoperative stent pain intensity with the stent in situ. Greater degree of central sensitization preoperatively, manifesting as higher temporal summation, was associated with higher postoperative pain intensity. Factors associated with preoperative hypersensitivity on QST included female sex, presence of chronic pain conditions, widespread pain, and depression.

CONCLUSION

Hypersensitivity to pain and central sensitization preoperatively was associated with postoperative ureteral stent pain, suggesting a physiologic basis for stent symptom variation. QST may identify patients more likely to develop stent pain after URS and could inform selection for preventive and interventional strategies.

Patients' Experiences With the Removal of a Ureteral Stent: Insights From In-depth Interviews With Participants in the USDRN STENTS Qualitative Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To describe the experiences of patients undergoing stent removal in the USDRN Study to Enhance Understanding of Stent-Associated Symptoms (STENTS), a prospective, observational cohort study of patients with short-term ureteral stent placement post-ureteroscopy.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative descriptive study using in-depth interviews. Participants reflected on (1) painful or bothersome aspects of stent removal, (2) symptoms immediately after removal, and (3) symptoms in the days following removal. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using applied thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The 38 participants interviewed were aged 13-77 years, 55% female, and 95% White. Interviews were conducted 7-30 days after stent removal. Almost all participants (n = 31) described that they experienced either pain or discomfort during stent removal, but for most (n = 25) pain was of short duration. Many participants (n = 21) described anticipatory anxiety related to the procedure, and several (n = 11) discussed discomfort arising from lack of privacy or feeling exposed. Interactions with medical providers often helped put participants at ease, but also increased discomfort for some. Following stent removal, several participants described lingering pain and/or urinary symptoms, but these largely resolved within 24 hours. A few participants described symptoms persisting for more than a day post stent removal.

CONCLUSION

These findings on patients' experiences during and shortly after ureteral stent removal, particularly the psychological distress they experienced, identify opportunities for improvement in patient care. Clear communication from providers about what to expect with the removal procedure, and the possibility of delayed pain, may help patients adapt to discomfort.