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Introduction: Modulated optics enhancement system (MOSES) holmium lasers use “pulse modulation” to increase the efficacy of laser lithotripsy. As the clinical evidence on the efficacy of 60 W holmium laser with MOSES technology is scarce, we analyzed the outcomes of patients treated with this laser at our institution. Methods: A total of 96 consecutive patients with urinary stones (72 renal stones and 24 ureteral stones) were treated with the 60 W MOSES laser from 2019 until 2022 and were included in our analysis. Patient data and outcomes were prospectively collected, and analysis was performed regarding patient demographics, stone parameters, as well as stone-free rate, operating time, length of stay, and perioperative and postoperative complications. Results: With a median age of 55 (IQR: 35–69.25) years, the male:female ratio was 53:43. The median stone size was 12 mm (IQR: 7–19), with a mean number of urinary stones of 1.82 (SD ± 1.4). While 36 (35%) patients were pre-stented, a ureteral access sheath was inserted in 36 (37.5%) patients. The median operative time was 44 min (IQR: 22.5–59.5), and 63 (65.5%) patients received postoperative stenting. Perioperative complications (all Clavien ⩽ II complications) were observed in 5 (5.2%) patients (four urinary tract infections and one acute urinary retention), and after the first procedure, 90 (93.8%) patients were stone-free. The median length of hospital stay was 1 day (IQR: 1–1). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the 60 W MOSES laser was safe and efficient for the treatment of urinary stones with high stone-free rates and a small risk of minor complications. More studies with larger cohorts are necessary in the future to confirm our results.

Background: Pediatric urolithiasis, while less common than in adults, is increasing in incidence. However, current guidelines on the optimal management of this condition vary. Technological advances have led to improvements in the quality and size of ureteroscopes, thus enabling their use in children. Despite this, there remains some hesitancy about using ureteroscopic lithotripsy in the pediatric population, particularly in cases of large stones ⩾10 mm. Objectives: In this study, our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ureteroscopy and laser stone fragmentation (URSL) for managing pediatric patients with a cumulative stone burden of ⩾10 mm in our tertiary referral center. Methods: A dataset was collected of pediatric renal tract stone patients treated at a single tertiary urological center between June 2010 and May 2024 (15 years). Pediatric patients undergoing URSL procedures for a minimum cumulative stone burden ⩾10 mm were included. A retrospective analysis of the dataset was conducted. The primary outcomes measured were stone-free rates (SFR), complications classified according to the Clavien-Dindo classification, and hospital length of stay. Results: A total of 61 pediatric patients with a mean age of 10 years (range: 2.3–16) underwent 83 URSL procedures in a tertiary endourology pediatric center over a 15-year period (2010–2024). The median initial stone burden was 17 mm (IQR: 12.5–24 mm), acquired from preoperative ultrasonography (USS). Results showed a first-pass SFR of 63.9% and a cumulative SFR of 93.4% (on USS) following one or multiple URSL procedures (1.4 procedures/patient). Immediate postoperative complications were minimal, with 6% experiencing complications classified as Clavien-Dindo I or II. The average hospital length of stay was 1.4 days. Conclusion: The findings in this study support that URSL is effective in treating pediatric urolithiasis, even for larger stone burdens. Further research is needed to standardize guidelines and optimize management strategies in this population. Plain language summary Safety and outcomes of large paediatric stones treated by ureteroscopy Large paediatric renal stones are often treated by percutaneous stone surgery procedure. In this paper we look at Ureteroscopy as a treatment for these large paediatric stones. Our data shows a good stone free rate with low risk of complications. Perhaps, ureteroscopy will offer an alternate treatment for these vulnerable age group especially for large renal stones.

Introduction: We wanted to analyze the trend of publications in a period of 30 years from 1994 to 2023, on the application of ‘artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), virtual reality (VR), and radiomics in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)’. We conducted this study by looking at published papers associated with AI and PCNL procedures, including simulation training, with preoperative and intraoperative applications. Materials and Methods: Although MeSH terms research on the PubMed database, we performed a comprehensive review of the literature from 1994 to 2023 for all published papers on ‘AI, ML, VR, and radiomics’ in ‘PCNL’, with papers in all languages included. Papers were divided into three 10-year periods: Period 1 (1994–2003), Period 2 (2004–2013), and Period 3 (2014–2023). Results: Over a 30-year timeframe, 143 papers have been published on the subject with 116 (81%) published in the last decade, with a relative increase from Period 2 to Period 3 of +427% (p = 0.0027). There was a gradual increase in areas such as automated diagnosis of larger stones, automated intraoperative needle targeting, and VR simulators in surgical planning and training. This increase was most marked in Period 3 with automated targeting with 52 papers (45%), followed by the application of AI, ML, and radiomics in predicting operative outcomes (22%, n = 26) and VR for simulation (18%, n = 21). Papers on technological innovations in PCNL (n = 9), intelligent construction of personalized protocols (n = 6), and automated diagnosis (n = 2) accounted for 15% of publications. A rise in automated targeting for PCNL and PCNL training between Period 2 and Period 3 was +247% (p = 0.0055) and +200% (p = 0.0161), respectively. Conclusion: An interest in the application of AI in PCNL procedures has increased in the last 30 years, and a steep rise has been witnessed in the last 10 years. As new technologies are developed, their application in devices for training and automated systems for precise renal puncture and outcome prediction seems to play a leading role in modern-day AI-based publication trends on PCNL.

Background: In vitro studies have shown that the holmium Modulated Optics Enhancement Systems (MOSES) technology can lead to an increase in the efficacy of lithotripsy and a reduction of retropulsion, but clinical evidence comparing it to non-MOSES technology is still scarce. We did a comparison of ureteoroscopy and laser stone fragmentation (URSL) between Holmium:YAG laser with MOSES versus non-MOSES technologies. Methods: Patient data and outcomes were prospectively collected and analyzed regarding patient demographics, stone parameters, and clinical outcomes. Patients undergoing URSL with standard holmium laser without MOSES technology (Group 1) were compared to holmium laser with MOSES (Group 2) using the same clinical laser settings (0.4–1 J, 20–40 Hz) with dusting and pop-dusting technique. The independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Chi-squared test were used, with a p-value of < 0.05 as significant. Given the different sizes of the cohorts, we performed a propensity score 1:1 matched analysis. Results: A total of 206 patients (1:1 matched) with a male:female ratio of 94:112 and a median age of 56 (range: 39–68) years were analyzed. Groups 1 and 2 were matched for ureteric stones (27.7% and 22.3%, p = 0.42), pre-stenting (37% and 35%, p = 0.66), the mean number of stones (1.76 ± 1.3) and (1.82 ± 1.4, p = 0.73), and ureteral access sheath use (37% and 35%, p = 0.77) respectively. While there was no significant statistical difference in clinical outcomes, the stone size was slightly larger in Group 2, 14.8 ± 10.8 mm vs 11.7 ± 8.0 mm, for a lower operative time 42.7 ± 30.6 min versus 48.5 ± 25 min, lower perioperative complication rates 3.9% versus 4.9% and a higher stone-free rate 90.3% versus 87.4%. Conclusion: While the use of MOSES technology was slightly beneficial for the treatment of stones in terms of clinical outcomes, this was not statistically significant. As this debate continues, there is a need for high-quality randomized studies to show if there is a true difference in these outcomes. Plain language summary We compare the outcomes of ureteroscopy and laser stone fragmentation (URSL), using Holmium:YAG laser with MOSES vs Non-MOSES technology: It is a prospective single-centre propensity score-matched analysis using similar laser settings It is a single-centre propensity score-matched analysis using similar laser settings. While the use of MOSES technology was slightly beneficial for treatment of stones in terms of clinical outcomes, this was not statistically significant. As this debate continues, there is a need for high quality randomized studies to show if there is a true difference in these outcomes.

The use of lasers in endourology has grown exponentially, leading to technological advancement and to miniaturization of the procedures. We aim to provide an overview of the lasers used in endourology and the associated future perspectives. Using MEDLINE, a non-systematic review was performed including articles between 2006 and 2023. English language original articles, reviews and editorials were selected based on their clinical relevance. Guidelines recommend ureteroscopy in case of stones <2 cm and a percutaneous approach for renal stones ≥2 cm. High-power holmium (Ho:YAG) lasers and the new thulium fibre laser (TFL) may change the future, offering shorter procedures for complex stones, with good outcomes. Increased intrarenal temperature associated with these new technologies may be overcome with adaptive strategies and optimal settings. For upper-tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC), the combination of laser techniques and these new lasers may reduce the risk of stenosis and allow for a more accurate tumour ablation, potentially reducing the recurrence rates. Laser enucleation procedures are gaining a major role in benign prostate enlargement (BPE), especially in patients with larger prostates or under anticoagulant therapy. However, the superiority of one laser over the other has not been established yet, and the choice of technique is mainly deferred to the surgeon’s expertise. In conclusion, lasers will further expand their horizon in endourology, allowing for instrument adaptation to challenging anatomy. Prospective, randomized clinical trials are however needed to confirm available results and to provide the optimal settings for each pathology.

ABSTRACT Introduction: This study aims to review the current role of endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) in the management of renal stones, with a focus on its efficacy and safety. The secondary outcome was to highlight the tips and tricks to improve the urologist's experience with ECIRS. Methods: A scoping review of the literature, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines, was performed, using ECIRS and flexible ureteroscopy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy as the search terms. All original articles were screened and included. Results: Thirty-three studies were included in the analysis. ECIRS showed a good efficacy and safety profile, with an excellent stone-free rate and a low rate of complications, mostly Clavien-Dindo I/II. With ECIRS, a reduction in the need for multiple access tracts was noted and direct visualization of the targeted calyx during the puncture increased the ability to attain transpapillary punctures, thereby reducing the amount of bleeding. Conclusion: ECIRS, as the first-line minimal access intervention, is safe and efficacious, particularly for achieving a stone-free status in patients with large complex stones in a single stage. The ability to gain access under direct vision and the reduction in the number of tracts, in both the supine and the prone positions, makes this procedure an attractive surgical choice.

PurposeTo evaluate the differential impact of postoperative radiotherapy (RT) on recurrence patterns in patients treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) using [68Ga]Ga-PSMAHBED-CC conjugate 11 positron emission tomography (PSMA 11-PET).MethodsWe assessed 162 consecutive patients who experienced biochemical recurrence (BCR) after RP for nonmetastatic prostate cancer (PC). All had at least one positive lesion on imaging. No patient was on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Patients were categorized into those who had received adjuvant/salvage RT ± ADT and those who did not (RP only). Lesion- and patient-based analyses were performed. The impact of the radiation field was assessed.ResultsOverall, 57 BCR patients underwent RP only, 105 received postoperative RT. Median PSA was 1.01 ng/ml (IQR 0.58–2). In the lesion-based analysis, compared to the RP only patients, those who had received postoperative RT, had less lymph node (LN) recurrences distal to the common iliac bifurcation (35.2 vs. 57.9%, p = 0.05), but were more likely to harbor positive LNs proximal to the iliac bifurcation and in the presacral (34.2 vs. 12.3%, p = 0.002) areas as well as bone metastases (25.7 vs. 8.8%, p = 0.01). In the patient-based analysis, the patients with postoperative RT after RP had less recurrence in the pelvis only (pelvic LNs and/or prostate bed) (52.4 vs. 79%, p = 0.002), but were more likely to harbor extrapelvic recurrence (41.9 vs. 15.8%, p = 0.001). Patients who received RT to the prostate bed only had more recurrence to the pelvic LN only (54.2% vs. 23.4%, p = 0.002), but less extrapelvic recurrence (31.3 vs. 53.2%, p = 0.03) and less bone recurrence (16.7 vs. 36.2%, p = 0.031) compared to those patients, who received RT to the prostate bed and pelvic nodes.ConclusionsPostoperative radiation treatment alters the recurrence pattern in BCR patients after RP. Further prospective studies are needed to establish a decision tree for optimal imaging/management according to previous treatments.

Background: Evidence-based guidelines are published by urological organisations for various conditions, including urolithiasis. In this paper, we provide guidance on the management of kidney stone disease (KSD) and compare the American Urological Association (AUA) and European Association of Urologists (EAU) guidelines. Methods: We evaluate and appraise the evidence and grade of recommendation provided by the AUA and EAU guidelines on urolithiasis (both surgical and medical management). Results: Both the AUA and EAU guidelines provide guidance on the type of imaging, treatment options, and medical therapies and advice on specific patient groups, such as in paediatrics and pregnancy. While the guidelines are generally aligned and based on evidence, some subtle differences exist in the recommendations, but both are generally unanimous for the majority of the principles of management. Conclusions: We recommend that the guidelines should undergo regular updates based on recently published material, and while these guidelines provide a framework, treatment plans should still be personalised, respecting patient preferences, surgical expertise, and various other individual factors, to offer the best outcome for kidney stone patients.

PurposeWe aim to analyze the efficacy of different focus sizes and the influence of pulse pressure (intensity) during shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) in terms of stone fragmentation.MethodsCombination of three focal sizes (F1 = 2 mm, F2 = 4 mm, F3 = 8 mm) and 11 output pressure settings (intensity 10–20) of a piezoelectric lithotripter (Wolf PiezoLith 3000) were tested on artificial stones (n = 99). The stones were placed within a 2 mm mesh cage. The needed number of shockwaves (SW) to first visible crack, 50% and 100% stone disintegration were recorded.ResultsSimilar number of SW’s were observed until the first crack 10, 11 and 11 SW’s for F1, F2, and F3, respectively (p > 0,05). The median number of SW needed for 50% stone disintegration was 245 for F1 group, 242 for F2 group and 656 for F3 group. F1 vs F2 p = 0.7, F1 vs F3 and F2 vs F3 p < 0.05. Similarly, with larger focus size a higher number of shockwaves were necessary for 100% stone disintegration. 894, 877 and 1708 SW’s for F1, F2 and F3, respectively. Only for F1 vs F3 and F2 vs F3 (all p < 0.05) a statistical difference was observed. These findings were consistent in all different power settings, with an increased difference in lower power levels (≤ 14).ConclusionsA smaller focus size, as well as a higher peak pressure results in a more effective stone fragmentation. However, these results need to be confirmed in an in vivo setting with multiple parameters interfering the efficacy, like BMI, respiration or stone migration.