Enhancing Recovery in Athletes: Clinical Application of Ultrasound-Guided Puncture for Stage I Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Abstract

Objective: To examine the clinical outcomes and benefits of ultrasound-guided puncture in stage I percutaneous nephrolithotomy, particularly in athletic populations focused on quick recovery and return to fitness activities.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 200 patients undergoing stage I percutaneous nephrolithotomy at our institution from January 2020 to October 2021. Patients were divided into two groups: 100 in the control group receiving X-ray guided puncture, and 100 in the observation group with ultrasound-guided puncture. Variables analyzed included complication rates, stress indicators (COR, NE, ACTH), stone clearance rates (primary, secondary, and overall), operative metrics (number of punctures, time to create percutaneous renal channel, operation time, average hospital stay), and inflammatory markers (CRP, WBC, IL-10, PCT).

Results: The observation group demonstrated fewer punctures, reduced times to create the percutaneous renal channel, operation time, and shorter hospital stays, all statistically significant (P < 0.05). Operation efficacy was higher in the observation group (90%) compared to the control group (80%), with statistical significance (χ² = 3.9216, P = 0.0477). In terms of stone clearance, the observation group showed superior primary and overall stone clearance rates. Post-operative stress and inflammatory indicators were significantly lower in the observation group (P < 0.05), indicating less physiological stress and quicker recovery potential. The recurrence rate of kidney stones was also significantly lower in the observation group over a 12-month follow-up period.

Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided puncture in stage percutaneous nephrolithotomy offers significant benefits for athletes, enhancing operative outcomes, reducing recovery times, and lowering physiological stress and inflammation. This method supports a faster return to training and competitive fitness, making it a preferable choice in sports medicine for athletes dealing with kidney stones.