NCT06930690 · The Methodist Hospital Research Institute
Dexamethasone for Ureteral STent Symptoms (DUSTS)
(DUSTS)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study to learn if high-dose dexamethasone, a type of long-acting steroid, works to decrease urinary symptoms and pain after ureteroscopy and stent placement for kidney stones.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study to learn if high-dose dexamethasone, a type of long-acting steroid, works to decrease urinary symptoms and pain after ureteroscopy and stent placement for kidney stones. The main question it aims to answer is: 1\) Does high-dose steroid change the quality of life score on day 2 after surgery Researchers will compare high-dose of dexamethasone (20 mg) to a standard dose of dexamethasone (4 mg) to see if a higher dose of the drug will help with urinary symptoms and pain Participants will: 1. randomly receive 20 mg or 4 mg of dexamethasone (20 mg) at the time of surgery 2. fill out a questionnaire day 1 and day 2 after surgery 3. fill out a medication diary for one week after surgery 4. visit the clinic on day 2 after surgery for checkup 5.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 18-70 years old
- Patients who are undergoing unilateral retrograde ureteroscopy (semi-rigid or flexible) with planned ureteral stent placement for treatment of renal/ureteral stones
- Patients who can read and understand English
- Patients who can follow up post-operatively within 7 days at Houston Methodist Hospital
Exclusion criteria
- Untreated UTI
- HbA1c ≥6.5 on preoperative testing
- Patients with prior diagnosis of any type of diabetes mellitus
- Patients with immunosuppression, including chronic corticosteroid use
- Patients with bleeding disorder
- Patients with chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver failure.
- Patients taking strong CYP3A4 inducers or inhibitors within two weeks of screening
- Chronic opioid analgesic use
- Congenital renal abnormalities (e.g. pelvic kidney, ureteric duplication) that may impair stent placement
- Concurrent genitourinary malignancy
- Urinary diversion
- Renal transplantation
- History of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome, prostatitis, pelvic pain due to other conditions (e.g. endometriosis)
- Neurologic disorder (e.g. spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida)
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Patients with cognitive impairments or untreated psychiatric illness
Where
- Houston, Texas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations