Abstract
Objective: To assess whether high-inserted urinary stents (HIUS) provide substantial enhancements in patient comfort and overall quality of life, we compared the stent-related symptoms of HIUS and conventional ureteric stents (CUS).
Methodology: We randomly assigned 54 patients who received simple ureteroscopic lithotripsy to a high-inserted or standard stent group. Baseline Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ) and visual analogue scale pain levels were assessed 2 weeks postoperatively and 4 weeks following stent removal. Also contrasted was subdomain analysis of all Stent-Related Symptoms (SRS) and stent problems.
Results: Significant intergroup differences were seen in urinary symptoms, pain index on VAS, and overall health domain scores (p<0.001). No significant difference was seen in the work performance index (p=0.077) or sexual matter score (p=0.064). The HIUS group had significantly higher scores on USSQ subdomains, including frequency, urgency, incomplete emptying, burning at voiding, hematuria grade, difficulties with heavy physical activity, feeling comfortable, resting in bed due to symptoms, decreasing routine activities, and sexual intercourse pain (p<0.001). Patients in both groups who quit sex life owing to stents were similar (p=0.745). Complication rates were similar in both groups.
Conclusion: HIUS dramatically reduced stent-related urine discomfort and pain. Thus, HIUS can be employed in clinical practice, especially for short-term stent implantation after simple ureteroscopic lithotripsy.

Key words: Complete intra-ureteric stent, conventional stent, stent-related symptoms, high inserted ureteric stent, lower urinary tract symptoms, pain, quality of life.