Ureteral stents are useful devices in urological surgery. The main objective of a ureteric stent is to allow the passage of urine and reduce early or late complications related to obstruction in the urinary tract. The stent is designed to help keep the ureter open, which can help relieve pain, improve urine flow, and prevent blockages.

This narrative review covered basic information and the main characteristics of ureteral stents.

What are ureteral stents?

Features:

● Durable with superior bio-compatibility.

● Thin wall designed for maximum drainage.

● Tapered at both ends - for easy insertion.

● Smooth surface for easy insertion.

● Highly radio-opaque for better visualization.

● Pigtail shape prevents stent migration.

How does a ureteral stent stay in place?

The stent is held in place by coils at each end so that its upper end is in the kidney and its lower end is in the urinary bladder. The stent is flexible enough to withstand various body movements.

Who needs ureteral stents?

Sometimes ureters can become blocked so that urine can’t drain as usual. A ureteral stent can clear the ureter so your kidneys can work as they should.

The ureters may become blocked as a result of several conditions, including:

● Kidney stones

● Tumors

● Blood clots

● Postoperative swelling

● Infection

Stents are temporary - will either need to be removed or exchanged regularly.

How are ureteral stents inserted?

Insertion of a ureteric stent is usually performed under a general anesthetic. A tube with a tiny optic camera is inserted through the urethra into your bladder. The bladder is inspected, and the ureteric opening is located. The stent is placed by sliding it over a flexible wire inserted into the ureter. The correct position of a stent is checked by taking an X-ray.

How are ureteral stents removed?

Stent removal is usually performed under local anesthetic using a flexible telescope. A cystoscope is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder and the stent is grasped with a small instrument and removed.

What are the possible complications of ureteral stenting?

Ureteric stents are designed to allow people to lead as normal a life as possible. However, they are often not without side effects.

After stent placement patients may experience various aftereffects. Typically these may include:

● Discomfort.

● A pulling sensation while urinating.

● Urinary frequency.

● Urinary urgency.

● Hematuria – blood in the urine.

● Pelvic pain.

● Ureteric injury – This is rare and is usually treated by leaving the stent in for a few weeks to allow the ureter to heal.

These symptoms usually settle down quickly upon the removal of the stent.

Patients should notify their physician if these symptoms are extreme or ongoing. 

If the stent falls out, please contact your Consultant urgently or the Urology Nurses.

How long does a ureteral stent remain in place?

The length of time the stent will remain inside your ureter depends on the reason it was placed. It should only be removed in the timeframe recommended by your physician, not sooner or later.

In most patients, a stent is required for a short duration, at times days but usually weeks or months. In some circumstances, a stent is required on a long-term basis.

Regardless of the stent composition, manufacturers usually recommend the exchange of stents at 3 to 6 month intervals, and studies have shown that the prevalence of complications increases with longer indwelling times your physician will be able to advise you on this.

Overall, ureteral stents are a valuable tool in the field of urology. They provide a safe and effective way to manage a variety of urinary tract conditions and can help improve the quality of life for many patients.

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