Comparison of ureteral stent related symptoms among patients with ureteral stents of 4.7Fr and 6Fr diameter.

Abstract

Objective: To compare the severity of stent-related LUTS between 4.7 Fr and 6 Fr DJ ureteral stents using the validated International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial. Setting: Department of Urology, National Hospital & Medical Centre, Lahore. Period: 23rd July 2025 to 23^rd Oct 2025. Methods: A total of 124 patients (aged 16–60 years) requiring unilateral DJ stent placement were randomized into two groups: Group A (4.7 Fr, n = 62) and Group B (6 Fr, n = 62). On postoperative day 7, participants completed the IPSS questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS v22.0, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Baseline demographics were comparable between groups. Patients with 6 Fr stents reported significantly higher total IPSS scores (22.4 ± 5.2) compared to those with 4.7 Fr stents (13.5 ± 4.0; p < 0.001). All symptom domains—including frequency, urgency, nocturia, and incomplete emptying—were worse in the 6 Fr group. Age, gender, and comorbidities were not significantly associated with mean IPSS scores. Conclusion: Larger diameter DJ stents (6 Fr) are associated with significantly greater LUTS compared to smaller 4.7 Fr stents. Use of smaller stents should be preferred where clinically feasible to minimize morbidity.