Diagnostic performance and cost-effectiveness of portable digital pH meters and traditional dipsticks for urine pH monitoring in patients at risk of recurrent urolithiasis

The portable digital pH meter demonstrated superior analytical performance and cost-effectiveness compared with dipsticks for urinary pH monitoring. Its broader implementation may enhance preventive strategies, reduce stone recurrence, and decrease the overall healthcare burden associated with recurrent urolithiasis. Considering these findings, the portable digital pH meters may warrant consideration for inclusion in major clinical guidelines on urolithiasis and for reimbursement by healthcare systems, potentially supporting their broader adoption in clinical practice.