Propensity-score matched analysis comparing retrograde intrarenal surgery with percutaneous nephrolithotomy for large stones in patients with a solitary kidney

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety, and cost of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in the treatment for large renal stones in patients with a solitary kidney. Patients and Methods: In this study, 117 patients with a solitary kidney who had undergone PCNL or RIRS for renal stones larger than 2 cm between January 2010 and December 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. The patients' demographic data, clinical characteristics, and perioperative outcomes were collected through a review of their medical records. Forty-three patients treated with PCNL were compared to 43 patients treated with RIRS by propensity score-matched analysis. The stone-free rate, retreatment rate, complication rate, and efficacy quotient (EQ) were assessed in both groups. Results: Initial stone-free rate of the PCNL group after a single procedure was significantly higher compared with the RIRS group (74.42% vs 34.88%, p < 0.001), whereas there was no significant differenc...