Success Rate of Ureteroscopy in China
There is no single nationwide success rate for ureteroscopy in China. Results vary based on the type, size, location, and number of stones, as well as the surgical technique.
Chinese studies of flexible ureteroscopy have reported stone-free rates ranging from around 70% to over 80% in different patient groups. One large study reported an approximately 82% stone-free rate one month after treatment using a specialized suction-assisted flexible ureteroscopy technique. These figures are from individual studies and should not be treated as a national success rate.
Factors That Affect Treatment Outcomes
1. Stone size
Smaller stones are generally easier to remove completely. Larger stones may require more than one procedure.
2. Stone location
Kidney stones in the lower part of the kidney can be more difficult to reach and may have lower stone-free rates.
3. Number of stones
Multiple stones can increase procedure time and the chance of leaving small fragments behind.
4. Surgeon experience
A urologist with extensive experience in flexible ureteroscopy and laser lithotripsy may achieve better outcomes, particularly with difficult stones.
5. Kidney function
Reduced function of the affected kidney can influence the likelihood of achieving a stone-free result.
6. Hydronephrosis and urinary blockage
Swelling of the kidney or urinary obstruction can make treatment more complex.
7. Stone hardness and composition
Some stones are harder to break with a laser and may require longer treatment or additional procedures.
8. Surgical equipment and technique
Modern flexible ureteroscopes, laser systems, imaging, and appropriate stone-fragment removal techniques can influence outcomes.
9. Patient health
Age, body weight, diabetes, previous stone procedures, infections, and other health conditions can affect recovery and treatment results.
10. Follow-up care
Follow-up imaging is important to check for remaining stone fragments. Some patients may need another procedure if significant stones remain.
Overall
Ureteroscopy has a generally good stone-removal success rate in experienced centers in China, but a patient's individual result can be very different from published averages. The most important factors are stone size and location, surgeon experience, kidney function, stone characteristics, equipment, patient health, and postoperative follow-up.
