Complications of Transurethral Pneumatic Lithotripsy in Children with Bladder Stone Disease

Purpose: Bladder stones remain a significant pediatric urological concern in developing countries, often linked to nutritional deficiencies, recurrent infections, and limited healthcare access. This study aimed to evaluate the complications associated with transurethral pneumatic lithotripsy (TPL) in children with bladder stone disease. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at MTI Mardan Medical Complex, Bacha Khan Medical College, Swabi, and the Institute of Kidney Disease, Hayatabad, from January 2024 to January 2025. A total of 60 children aged 2–15 years with radiologically confirmed bladder stones underwent TPL under general anesthesia using a pediatric cystoscope and pneumatic lithotripter. Data on demographics and postoperative complications were recorded and analyzed. Results: The mean age of participants was 7.8 ± 3.2 years, with males comprising 66.7% of cases. Postoperative complications were observed in a subset of patients, including hematuria (13.3%), fever (10.0%), urinary retention (8.3%), and bladder perforation (3.3%). All complications were managed conservatively without the need for secondary surgical intervention. Conclusion: TPL is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment for pediatric bladder stone disease, with low complication rates and favorable clinical outcomes. Its application in children provides an alternative to open surgical procedures with reduced morbidity.