Efficacy of Tamsulosin Spontaneous Expulsion in the Treatment of Distal Ureteric Stones

Objective: The objective of study was to determine the efficacy of Tamsulosin (alpha blocker) in spontaneous expulsion of 4-7mm ureteric stones in the distal segment of the ureter. Subjects and methods: This randomized controlled trial study was conducted in the department of Urology, Shaikh Zayed Hospital between 24th November, 2008 to 24th May, 2009. A total 90 patients with lower ureteric stones equally divided in 2 groups A and B. In Group A tablet Tamsulosin 0.4mg was given at bed time in addition to diclofenic 50mg twice a day and in Group B only diclofenic sodium 50 mg twice-a-days was given. Treatment was continued upto 28 days maximum. All the patients were followed with abdominal ultrasound weekly. It was measured in term of stone expulsion which was confirmed by abdominal ultrasound and X-ray KUB at follow up. The clinical information of all patients was entered into pre designed proforma. The clinical variables were evaluated statistically. Results: In group A the stone was discharged in 37 out of 45 patients and in group B stone was discharged in 22 out of 45 patients only. Treatment A showing a significant results in term of stone discharge as compared to treatment B i.e. p-value = 0.001. The average stone expulsion time was also significantly less in group A as compared to group B. Conclusion: Alpha 1 antagonist (Tamsulosin) increases spontaneous expulsion of small distal ureteral stones.