Efficacy of preoperative electroacupuncture for ureteral access sheath placement during first-stage flexible ureteroscopy in urolithiasis: a multicenter, randomized, single-blind, sham-controlled trial protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) is a primary treatment for urolithiasis, with successful ureteral access sheath (UAS) placement being a critical step. Preliminary studies suggest preoperative electroacupuncture (EA) may enhance UAS placement success, reduce ureteral injury, and improve stone clearance rates. This trial evaluates the efficacy and safety of EA as an adjunct to first-stage RIRS.

Methods and analysis

This multicenter, randomized, single-blind, sham-controlled trial will enroll 120 adult patients with upper ureteral or renal stones (≥ 10 mm) scheduled for first-stage RIRS. Participants will be randomized (1:1) to receive either preoperative EA plus general anesthesia or sham EA plus general anesthesia across multiple sessions. The primary outcom

SUBMITTER: Wang S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12690886 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature