[Self-retaining ureteric removal of an encrusted ureteric stent after 10 years]

Autostatic ureteral stents have been commonly used in urology for more than 20 years. Encrustation is a frequent and well described phenomenon that sometimes makes stent removal difficult. The main predisposing factors are: duration of stenting, history or concomitant stone disease, urinary tract infection or bacterial colonization, pregnancy and chemotherapy. Treatment depends on the degree of encrustation, especially when it involves the proximal loop. Extracorporeal lithotripsy alone or combined with endoscopic treatment is very effective, but open surgery may sometimes be necessary. The authors report a case in which drainage was exceptionally prolonged as the stent was removed after a period of 10 years. Stent removal required 3 operations, including one open procedure. The steps of treatment are described and the aetiologies of encrustation and the therapeutic strategy are discussed.