A ureteric stent is a thin, soft plastic tube that keeps urine flowing from the kidney to the bladder - commonly used after stone surgery or to relieve obstruction.
Ureteric stents are used in several situations:
The stent is placed through a small telescope (cystoscope) passed through the urethra - no incisions are needed. Insertion is usually done under a light general anaesthetic. The stent sits with one curled end in the kidney and the other in the bladder, with a fine monofilament string sometimes left for easy removal.
Most stents are removed one to two weeks after ureteroscopy. Removal is a brief procedure, usually performed in the rooms with local anaesthetic gel, or occasionally under a short anaesthetic. Follow-up imaging may be arranged afterwards depending on the original condition.
Dr Kooner reviews imaging and symptoms, explains whether a stent is required and how long it will stay in, and books the procedure.
Admission as a day-case. The stent is placed cystoscopically under a light general anaesthetic, usually taking 10-20 minutes. You go home the same day.
Most people return to normal activities within 24-48 hours. Mild bladder irritation, pink urine, or a pulling sensation with movement are common and not dangerous.
Stent removal is booked on a specific date. Follow-up imaging (for stones or obstruction) is arranged as appropriate for the original problem.
Stents are generally well tolerated, but patients should be aware of:
Please contact the rooms or seek urgent care if you develop a fever, severe flank pain, or heavy bleeding.
Many patients are aware of the stent - typically as mild bladder urgency or a pulling sensation with activity. Symptoms vary and almost always settle once the stent is removed.
Most people return to light work and driving within 24-48 hours. Gentle activity is fine; discuss heavy lifting or strenuous exercise with Dr Kooner.
Usually one to two weeks after ureteroscopy; occasionally longer if the ureter needs more time to heal or while awaiting definitive treatment. A removal date is always planned.
Removal is brief. When a retrieval string is in place, it can often be removed in the rooms with local anaesthetic gel. Otherwise, a short cystoscopy is performed.
Arrange a consultation or request a second opinion on kidney cancer, stones, or reconstructive kidney surgery.