Publications by authors named "Loretta Tear"

Introduction: Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) is a well-established treatment for kidney stone disease (KSD) and despite its decreased popularity in the past, it has now gained renewed interest due to its minimally invasive nature and good outcomes, especially in the face of COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of our study was to perform a service evaluation to analyse and identify quality of life (QoL) changes [using Urinary Stones and Intervention Quality of Life (USIQoL) questionnaire] after repeat SWL treatments. This would enable a greater understanding of SWL treatment and reduce the current gap of knowledge regarding patient specific outcomes in the field.

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Introduction: Diagnostic pressure on endoscopy suite can lead to delay in flexible cystoscopic stent removal. We compare the cost and organizational impact of reusable flexible cystoscope versus single-use, flexible cystoscope with a built-in stent grasper (Isiris).

Material And Methods: Data for the reusable cystoscopic stent removal performed in endoscopy room, group A (period 1) were compared to Isiris disposable stent removal performed in outpatient clinic, group B (period 2).

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We introduced a nurse-led telephone-based virtual stone clinic (VSC) follow-up for the surveillance of patients with asymptomatic renal calculi or those at a high risk of recurrent kidney stone disease (KSD). The aim of this study was to look at the outcomes of VSC and its role in the post-COVID era. Prospective outcomes audit was done for all patients referred to the VSC for a 6-year period (March 2014-April 2020).

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