Size matters: The width and location of a ureteral stone accurately predict the chance of spontaneous passage

OBJECTIVES: To determine how to most accurately predict the chance of spontaneous passage of a ureteral stone using information in the diagnostic non-enhanced computed tomography (NECT) and to create predictive models with smaller stone size intervals than previously possible. METHODS: Retrospectively 392 consecutive patients with ureteric stone on NECT were included. Three radiologists independently measured the stone size. Stone location, side, hydronephrosis, CRP, medical expulsion therapy (MET) and all follow-up radiology until stone expulsion or 26 weeks were recorded. Logistic regressions were performed with spontaneous stone passage in 4 weeks and 20 weeks as the dependent variable. RESULTS: The spontaneous passage rate in 20 weeks was 312 out of 392 stones, 98% in 0–2 mm, 98% in 3 mm, 81% in 4 mm, 65% in 5 mm, 33% in 6 mm and 9% in ≥6.5 mm wide stones. The stone size and location predicted spontaneous ureteric stone passage. The side and the grade of hydronephrosis only predicted stone passage in specific subgroups. CONCLUSION: Spontaneous passage of a ureteral stone can be predicted with high accuracy with the information available in the NECT. We present a prediction method based on stone size and location. KEY POINTS: • Non-enhanced computed tomography can predict the outcome of ureteral stones. • Stone size and location are the most important predictors of spontaneous passage. • Prediction models based on stone width or length and stone location are introduced. • The observed passage rates for stone size in mm-intervals are reported. • Clinicians can make better decisions about treatment.