Health related quality of life in ureteral stone patients: Post-ureterolithiasis

Ureteral stones disease is among the most painful and prevalent among urologic disorders that can substantially impact health-related quality of life (HRQoL), particularly in patients with a history of recurrent stones. The aim of the study is to assess the QoL in patients with ureteral calculi after surgical intervention and identifying the most significant factors that could impact their QoL. The target population included two groups: post-lithotripsy patients and comparator group comprising healthy individuals selected from the general population. Both groups were matched for age and gender. The study continued through a period of 9 months. An observation period of 4-10 months following the last surgical intervention was applied before interviewing patients. Information regarding socio-demographics, medical data and presence of co-morbidities were recorded. The Medical Outcome Study Short-Form 36-item survey (SF-36) was used to assess HRQoL for both groups. Based on the SF-36 questionnaire, there were no significant differences between patients and healthy volunteers in the mean scores for eight of the HRQoL domains, except for pain and social functioning subscales. Patient's age, distal ureteral stones and ureteral stent, in addition to DM and low back pain appeared to significantly affect the HRQoL of patients. In conclusion, the promising end point in the management of urolithiasis is improvement of HRQoL. The results of the current study support the notion that urinary stone disease is not a life threatening disease and patients can return to normal life after surgical intervention. Prospective studies are warranted for elucidating the factors influencing HRQoL in ureteral stone patients to optimize patient care. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.