Retrospective Analysis: The Effect of the Seasonal Changes on the Frequency of Urinary System Stone Operations

Abstract

Aim: Urolithiasis is a multifactorial disease influenced by various factors, including climate and seasonal changes. While climatic effects on stone formation have been studied, seasonal variations in urinary stone surgeries remain underexplored. To investigate the seasonal variation in the frequency of urinary stone surgeries over a three-year period and assess potential seasonal influences on surgical incidence and emergency department visits. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 841 urinary stone surgeries and 509 transurethral resections of the prostate (TUR-P) procedures (as controls) performed between January 2018 and December 2020 was conducted. Procedures were categorized by meteorological seasons. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square tests to evaluate differences in seasonal distribution. Results: Urinary stone surgeries showed a significant seasonal variation, with the highest frequency in summer (27.8%) and the lowest in spring (19.3%) (p<0.05). No similar seasonal trend was observed in TUR-P procedures. The majority of patients were female (66.0%) with a mean age of 49.7 years. The ureter and kidneys were the most common locations of stone formation. Most patients underwent ureterorenoscopy, and postoperative DJ stenting was frequent (79.5%). Residual stones and complications were infrequent. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate a statistically significant increase in urinary stone surgeries during summer, suggesting seasonal influences on disease manifestation. These results highlight the importance of heightened clinical awareness and preventive measures, particularly during warmer months, to reduce the burden of urinary stone disease and emergency department visits.