In this Journal Club edition of the EAU Podcast, moderator Prof. Thomas Tailly (BE) leads an in-depth conversation with guideline panel members Prof. Andreas Skolarikos (GR), Ass. Prof. Christopher Netsch (DE) and Prof. Otas Durutovic (RS), exploring how the EAU Guidelines on Urolithiasis are actually created, reviewed, and updated each year.

The speakers walk listeners through the methodology and workflow behind the guideline development process. They outline how the panel evaluates new evidence, conducts structured literature reviews, grades recommendations, and balances scientific rigour with clinical applicability. The discussion also highlights the timing and workload surrounding annual updates, the collaboration between full and associate panel members, and the importance of transparency when translating evolving evidence into practical recommendations.

Drawing on their personal experiences, the panel reflects on the challenges of harmonising diverse viewpoints, maintaining consistency across chapters, and adapting to rapidly expanding scientific data in stone disease. They also comment on how the guideline process has matured over time, emphasising quality control, internal peer review, and collective decision-making.

With clear explanations and candid insights “from inside the panel room”, this episode provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at how one of the most widely used urological guidelines is developed - and what it takes to keep it current, balanced, and clinically meaningful.

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