Ureteral stent

A ureteral stent is a small tube which is inserted into the ureter to keep them open. Urine can flow through this tube and bypass any obstruction. They are also called double J stents due to the ends of the stents being J-shaped and are therefore sometimes called JJ or DJ stents.

Ureteral stenting is usually performed retrograde from the bladder by cystoscopy. Once in the bladder, the ureteral orifice is cannulated and the stent is inserted. It can also be performed anterograde through a nephrostomy, but this is not the first choice. Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended in either case.

The stent is replaced or removed after a few weeks or months. JJ stents are often a preferred alternative to a percutaneous nephrostomy.

Indications

• Urinary tract obstruction at the level of the ureter - due to ureter stone, tumour, retroperitoneal fibrosis
• Ureteral surgery or injury to the ureter - to allow proper healing