Ureteral stents are thin, flexible tubes inserted into the ureter (the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder) to help urine flow from the kidney to the bladder when there is an obstruction or narrowing. They are commonly used in urology to treat or prevent blockages caused by conditions such as kidney stones, tumors, or scar tissue.
Ureteral stents are used to:
Relieve obstruction: Ensure urine can flow from the kidney to the bladder when the ureter is blocked.
Prevent complications: Protect kidney function by preventing damage from backed-up urine (hydronephrosis).
Support healing: Help the ureter heal after surgery or trauma.
Facilitate procedures: Used during or after procedures like ureteroscopy or kidney stone removal.
Material: Made of soft, flexible plastic (e.g., silicone or polyurethane).
Shape: Typically have a double-J or pig-tail design, with coiled ends to prevent migration.
One end coils in the kidney.
The other end coils in the bladder.
Length and diameter: Sized to fit the patient’s anatomy.
Ureteral stents are used in various medical situations, including:
Kidney stones:
To relieve obstruction caused by a stone.
To allow passage of stone fragments after treatment (e.g., lithotripsy).
Ureteral strictures:
Narrowing of the ureter due to scar tissue, infection, or surgery.
Tumors:
Blockage caused by cancers of the kidney, ureter, bladder, or surrounding organs.
Post-surgical support:
After procedures like ureteroscopy, kidney transplant, or ureteral reconstruction.
Pregnancy:
To relieve hydronephrosis caused by pressure from the growing uterus.
Procedure: Stents are typically placed during a cystoscopy (a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the urethra into the bladder).
Anesthesia: Local, spinal, or general anesthesia may be used.
Duration: The procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes.
Imaging: Fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) may be used to guide placement.
While ureteral stents are effective, they can cause discomfort or side effects, including:
Urinary symptoms:
Frequent urination.
Urgency to urinate.
Blood in the urine (hematuria).
Pain:
Flank or bladder discomfort.
Pain during urination or physical activity.
Other symptoms:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Stent migration (rare).
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to reduce the risk of infection and keep the stent clear.
Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen) may help with discomfort.
Activity restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities that could dislodge the stent.
Follow-up: Regular check-ups to monitor the stent and plan for its removal.
Timing: Stents are usually temporary and removed after a few days to weeks, depending on the condition being treated.
Procedure: Removal is typically done during a cystoscopy and is quick and minimally invasive.
Permanent stents: In rare cases, long-term or permanent stents may be used for chronic conditions.
While ureteral stents are generally safe, potential complications include:
Infection: Increased risk of UTIs.
Encrustation: Mineral deposits can form on the stent, especially if left in place for a long time.
Migration: The stent may move out of place.
Blockage: The stent can become blocked, requiring replacement.
Discomfort: Some patients experience significant pain or irritation.
Ureteral stents are often necessary in the following situations:
Kidney stone treatment: To relieve obstruction or facilitate stone removal.
Post-surgery: To support the ureter after procedures.
Cancer-related blockages: To maintain kidney function in patients with tumors.
Congenital abnormalities: To manage structural issues in the urinary tract.
If you have been advised to get a ureteral stent or are experiencing symptoms like flank pain, blood in the urine, or difficulty urinating, consult a urologist. Ureteral stents can provide significant relief and prevent serious complications.
