Virgin ureter vs. non-virgin ureter? A comparative analysis on complications and failure of retrograde intrarenal surgery: a multicentre case-control study from RIRSearch Group

It is unclear whether ureteral virginity has an effect on retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). We aimed to evaluate the impact of ureteral virginity on RIRS outcomes in a multicenter study. Data from the RIRSearch study group database were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with a history of endoluminal interventions or extrinsic ureteral surgery were categorized as having a non-virgin ureter, while those without such histories were classified as virgin ureters. Case-control matching was performed based on age, gender, uretral access sheath size, and stone characteristics. Demographic, clinical, surgical and complication data were compared after-matching. A total of 894 procedures were included, with 119 (13.3%) involving non-virgin ureters. Pre-matching, the non-virgin ureter group had higher mean age (50.6 +/- 13.2 vs. 46.6 +/- 13.6 years) and Charlson comorbidity index >= 2 (51.3% vs. 40.4%). In addition, number of stones, total-stone volume and rate of multiple stone localization were significantly higher in non-virgin ureter group. Operation time, hospital stay, surgical failure, need for auxiliary treatment, and perioperative complications were significantly higher in non-virgin ureter group (p < 0.05). After case-matching, perioperative complications (18.7% vs. 5.3%), hospital stay (1.54 +/- 1.30 vs. 1.18 +/- 0.98 days), and auxiliary treatment requirements (20% vs. 8.4%) remained significantly higher in non-virgin ureter group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative complication rates (17.3% vs. 19.8%) or surgical failure rates (36% vs. 26%). Non-virgin ureters were associated with higher perioperative complication rate, longer hospital stays and increased need for auxiliary treatments during RIRS. Patients with non-virgin ureters may be informed about these potential risks before surgery.