Comparison of three different endoscopic techniques in management of bladder calculi

INTRODUCTION: We present our experience of comparison of endoscopic treatment of vesical calculus in bladder stone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 67 patients of bladder stone treated in this hospital from between June 2006 to December 2009 who were randomly assigned in three groups—group 1 (transurethral removal using a nephroscope), group 2 (transurethral removal using a cystoscope), and group 3 (percutaneous removal using a nephroscope). RESULTS: Statistical significant difference was observed in operating time—group 1 (32.1+ 8.5 mins), group 2 (69.2 +16.3), and group 3 (46 + 7.3). Statistically significant difference was also observed in the postoperative stay of the patient, which was highest for the group 3 patients. Complete clearance was achieved in all the patients. Group 1 had maximum number of urethral entries as compared to other two groups in consideration. CONCLUSIONS: Transurethral stone removal using a nephroscope is safe and efficacious method of stone removal without increasing the morbidity of the patients.