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

• Published in: Urology (Ridgewood, N.J.) Vol. 188; pp. 38 - 45
• Main Authors: Ziemba, Justin B., Jones, Amanda, Lin, George, Stambakio, Hanna, Tasian, Gregory E., Huang, Jing
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.06.2024
• ISSN: 0090-4295; 1527-9995; 1527-9995
• DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2024.03.019

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